Sports

Pirates to Host Big Screen Watch Party Outside PNC Park Thursday

The team is encouraging fans to come to Federal Street to watch the Pirates take on the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium.

The Pittsburgh Pirates announced late Wednesday plans to host a special Postseason Watch party on Federal Street outside PNC park on Thursday, Oct. 3, weather permitting, as the Bucs take on the St. Louis Cardinals in Game One of the National League Division Series at Busch Stadium. First pitch is 5:07 p.m.

The team will erect a 15 ' x 20 ' projection screen to be located on Federal Street where fans can enjoy the game with the bridge and city of Pittsburgh as the backdrop.

"This series promises to be another great chapter in this incredible season and we want to ensure all of our loyal fans have the opportunity to be part of the festivities," said Pirates President Frank Coonelly. "The electricity of the first Postseason game at PNC Park showed how passionate Pittsburgh is about the Pirates and we want to give fans the opportunity to join together again to cheer on the team."

Ross Township financial specialist David E. Martin first proposed the idea of an outdoors venue for playoff baseball in early September. He even went so far as to create a Facebook page where fans could add their suggested venues. The site has had thousands of hits, with fans leaving dozens of suggestions, he said.

"I'm thrilled the Pirates are doing this for their fans," he said. "I hope it continues right through the World Series."

Fans must bring their own seating, but vendors will be selling food and drinks, and the PNC Riverwalk will be open to provide guests with access to restroom facilities.

Federal Street and the Clemente Bridge will close to vehicular traffic at 10 a.m. Thursday. Also, there will be limited free parking available after 4 p.m. in the Red Lot Six, located across from the PNC Park Press entrance on General Robinson Street.


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