Baseball games are taking longer to play, but in 2021, the Pirates are making sure fans who go to the game can still get home at a reasonable hour.
The Pirates are changing their home schedule to more “family-friendly” times, playing weekday night games in April, May and September at 6:35 p.m. rather than 7:05 p.m.. Sunday afternoon games throughout the season will be played at 1:05 p.m. instead of 1:35 p.m..
“We have spent a lot of time listening to our Season Ticket Holders and fans and are making many changes to the fan experience based on their feedback,” Pirates president Travis Williams said. “In 2021, one of the changes everyone will be able to take advantage of is the earlier game times before Memorial Day and after Labor Day. These changes were made to accommodate family schedules and allow more fans the opportunity to attend a weekday game while still balancing their daily routines.”
The Pirates’ home opener will be Apr. 8 against the Cubs, with first pitch scheduled for 1:35 p.m..
And yes, the plan is to have fans in the stands.
Last week governor Tom Wolf adjusted capacity guidelines for large gatherings. The Steelers took advantage of this last Sunday, letting 4,708 people into Heinz Field.
Under current guidelines, outdoor events in facilities that seat more than 10,000 people can be filled to 15% capacity, with a cap at 7,500. For PNC Park, that would be about a 5,750 person limit per game.
Season ticket holders will be the first to receive priority access when gates open next season.
