Pittsburgh Pirates History

A journey through one of baseball's oldest and most storied franchises

The Pittsburgh Pirates

Founded in 1882 as the Pittsburgh Alleghenys, the Pittsburgh Pirates are one of the oldest continuously operating franchises in professional sports. They joined the National League in 1887 and have called Pittsburgh home for over 140 years — through the dead-ball era, the golden age of baseball, the lean years, and moments of unforgettable triumph.

The Pirates have won five World Series championships (1909, 1925, 1960, 1971, 1979) and produced some of the greatest players to ever step onto a diamond — from Honus Wagner to Roberto Clemente to Willie Stargell.

From the legendary 1960 World Series — decided by Bill Mazeroski's walk-off home run in Game 7 — to the "We Are Family" champions of 1979, the Pirates have delivered some of baseball's most iconic moments. This site explores the full story: the triumphs, the legends, the ballparks, and everything that makes the black and gold one of the sport's truly great institutions.

Explore the Franchise

Team History

From the Alleghenys of the 1880s to the modern era — trace the evolution of the franchise through every decade, every pennant race, and every era of Pirates baseball.

Championships

Five World Series titles, nine National League pennants, and countless division crowns. Relive the championship seasons that defined the franchise.

Legendary Players

Honus Wagner. Roberto Clemente. Willie Stargell. Bill Mazeroski. Barry Bonds. The men who wore the black and gold and made history doing it.

Stadiums

From Forbes Field to Three Rivers Stadium to PNC Park — the homes of Pirates baseball and the memories made inside them.