The Pirates will no longer require guests who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to wear masks at PNC Park, effective immediately.
The relaxing of the mask policy is consistent with yesterday’s announcement from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Pennsylvania Department of Health regarding masking requirements.
“We are excited to be able to quickly adjust our face mask policy, consistent with the Department of Health’s announcement. This is another huge step in our return to normalcy here in Pittsburgh,” Pirates president Travis Williams said in a released statement. “We appreciate the patience and cooperation of our fans as we continue to adjust our health and safety protocols accordingly. We join our partners at Allegheny Health Network and Highmark Health in encouraging everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible so that we can reach the 70-percent threshold in Pennsylvania and remove the mask mandate entirely.”
Enforcement of the policy will be self-regulated.
The Pirates plan to announce details regarding capacity increases for the remainder of the season and further adjustments to the health and safety protocols at PNC Park next week.
Earlier this week, vice president of communications and broadcasting Brian Warecki told DK Pittsburgh Sports that the Pirates are working towards “a safe and significant increase in capacity at PNC Park.” Due to the month-to-month ticket sales cycle, that chance in capacity will come in June.
The Pirates are currently selling tickets up to 25% capacity at PNC Park, and will continue to do so through May. There have already been some changes at the ballpark this homestand that signal those relaxed policies, including removing tarps off outfield seats and welcoming non-Tier 1 people back onto the field for the National Anthem and the fifth inning Pierogie race. Those changes came following league and state approval.
The Pirates will play the Giants this weekend at PNC Park before embarking on a week-long road trip.