Pirates' Bucco Bricks Fiasco: Team Offers Fans Substitutes

PITTSBURGH, PA — Attempting to address the public relations disaster created by the discarding of the Bucco Bricks outside PNC Park, the Pirates announced Wednesday that free commemorative replicas are available to fans who originally purchased them.

The Pirates also reiterated the team has plans for a new permanent display showcasing all of the original messages on the bricks.

“I know how meaningful the messages and tributes are. We respect that. We appreciate that,” team President Travis Williams wrote in an open letter to fans. “We are, and have always been, absolutely committed to ensuring these special messages and tributes live on permanently at PNC Park.”

Last week, the team was excoriated by fans left scrambling to explain why commemorative bricks placed outside PNC Park were discovered at a Reserve Township recycling center in a KDKA-TV report. The Pirates had not informed fans that they were junking the sentimental mementos.

Launched in 1999, the "Bucco Bricks" program allowed fans to purchase personalized bricks that would be placed on the main terrace of PNC Park, with proceeds going to the Roberto Clemente Foundation. The team sold about 10,000 bricks at prices of $75-$150 depending on their size.

Williams said the team has expedited the development of the new permanent display showcasing the messages "in a manner that is worthy of their deep personal meaning."

He also noted that both the complimentary replica bricks and the forthcoming display at PNC Park are part of an ongoing effort to show fans how much they mean to the Pirates organization.

“My hope is that, through our actions, you will be assured that we appreciate you and we care about you,” he said.

To receive a replica brick, original donors can visit www.pirates.com/buccobricks and complete the form.