The Pittsburgh Pirates recently faced backlash after removing a tribute to legendary player Roberto Clemente from the right-field wall at PNC Park. The tribute, which consisted of a diamond with Clemente’s name and jersey number 21, was replaced by an advertisement without informing the Clemente family.
After public outcry, the Pirates announced that the tribute sign would be reinstated in its original location. The decision to remove the tribute and replace it with an ad was seen for the first time during the Pirates’ home opener against the New York Yankees.
Roberto Clemente Jr., son of the late Hall of Famer, expressed shock and disappointment at the removal of the tribute without consultation. He highlighted the lack of collaboration between the organization and the family on matters of historical significance.
Team president Travis Williams acknowledged the mistake and explained that the area had been used for advertisements for many years. He emphasized that the organization never intended to disrespect Clemente’s legacy and that the wall itself is dedicated to honoring him.
PNC Park also features a statue of Clemente outside the stadium, near the Roberto Clemente Bridge. The Pirates retired Clemente’s number 21 in 1973, and many have called for it to be retired league-wide like Jackie Robinson’s number 42.
Clemente, who tragically died in a plane crash in 1972 while delivering aid to earthquake victims, was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1973. He spent his entire 18-season career with the Pirates, leaving a lasting impact on the team and the sport of baseball.