An OPEN LETTER to the players for the Pittsburgh Pirates:
First, thank you for playing this 60-game schedule and, for the most part, remaining healthy so the ballclub doesn’t get shut down and miss games. We need baseball.
Now, to the reason we have sent this correspondence in your direction.
It’s not your fault. Sure, you are the guys on the field playing the games, but the 4-14 record isn’t on you. You really weren’t given much of chance and that statement is based on the roster compiled by new GM Ben Cherington. Now, that doesn’t mean we’re blaming him, either, but we guarantee you he wishes many of you were still developing on the minor-league level.
But the budget is what it is, and that is why many of us didn’t expect much. Think about it. When baseball’s highest payroll is FOUR TIMES the amount expended in Pittsburgh, hope didn’t spring eternal. Some predicted (optimistically) a 30-30 mark while others didn’t believe you had a chance for 20 victories.
But there you are, wearing a black and gold big-league uniform during what is probably the most frustrating season in your entire career. We are certain your trophy cases are full of championship hardware and saved balls from game-winning hits or college no-hitters because you have been damn good since Little League.
So, please do not allow the 2020 campaign to derail your dream of establishing yourself on the major-league level in the future. Take what you have learned from the few veterans on the roster and from the coaches and manager (it’s not their fault either), and advance your game so you and your teammates can be much more competitive next season.
We’re rooting for yinz guys.
Sincerely,
An Embittered Fan Base
