Highlighting the 50 greatest players in Pittsburgh Pirates history, this book provides in-depth biographical details, notable achievements, statistics, and awards for each athlete. It also features recaps of memorable performances and includes quotes from both opposing players and former teammates, offering a comprehensive look at what makes these players elite in the realm of baseball.
The 1960 Pittsburgh Pirates, overcoming a decade of struggles, captured the pennant and faced the dominant New York Yankees in the World Series. Despite being outscored in three games, the Pirates rallied to force a Game 7. The thrilling finale culminated in Bill Mazeroski's legendary home run in the bottom of the ninth, securing an unforgettable championship. This book chronicles the remarkable journey of that iconic team and their triumph, forever cementing their legacy in the hearts of Pittsburgh baseball fans.
Set against the backdrop of Altoona's rich baseball history, the narrative chronicles the town's brief stint with a major-league team in 1884 and its subsequent struggles to maintain professional baseball for over a century. Despite the ups and downs of six teams coming and going, the community's passion for the sport persisted. The arrival of the Curve in 1999 marked a turning point, with a remarkable 10 percent of the population attending games, showcasing Altoona's enduring love for baseball.
The Best Players at Each Position for the Bucs
Veteran sportswriter Dave Finoli crafts an all-time All-Star lineup for the Pittsburgh Pirates, blending career statistics with insightful analysis and unique intangibles. This imaginative exploration highlights the team's rich history and showcases the legendary players who have shaped the franchise, offering fans a nostalgic and engaging look at the best of the Pirates.
Celebrating the rich history of professional football, this book highlights the pivotal role of southwestern Pennsylvania, particularly Pittsburgh and Latrobe, as its birthplace. It recounts the story of Pudge Heffelfinger, the first paid player, and the establishment of the first all-professional club in 1897. The narrative also explores the contributions of other towns like Jeannette and Greensburg, including Latrobe's unsuccessful bid for the Professional Football Hall of Fame in the mid-20th century, showcasing the region's deep connection to the sport.
Celebrating over 120 years of baseball history, this book chronicles the legacy of the Pittsburgh Pirates, originally known as the Alleghenys. It highlights the achievements of 35 Hall of Famers and five World Series championships, showcasing iconic moments like Honus Wagner's prowess, Bill Mazeroski's unforgettable 1960 World Series home run, and Roberto Clemente's remarkable contributions both on and off the field. Fans will relive treasured memories and the rich heritage of one of baseball's storied franchises.
The Epicenter of Steel City Sports From Forbes Field to Pitt Stadium, Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood has been home to some of the most iconic moments in sports history. Including the Fitzgerald Field House and the Duquesne Gardens, Oakland has drawn in both professional and college sports fans alike. Local authors and sports historians David Finoli, Tom Rooney, Robert Healy III, Douglas Cavanaugh and Chris Fletcher celebrate the glorious victories and heartbreaking losses throughout the history of Pittsburgh's Oakland section, the epicenter of Steel City Sports.
Ten years after a one-loss season and being ranked third in the nation, the University of Pittsburgh's historic football team had fallen on hard times. In 1973, the team hired former All-American Johnny Majors to right the ship, and he promptly recruited Tony Dorsett and Al Romano. Over the next four years, the new-look Panthers were brought back to prominence with stunning victories, culminating in the 1976 NCAA National Championship. Dorsett, a future Pro Football Hall of Famer, became the first college running back to eclipse two thousand yards in a season and was awarded the Heisman Trophy in the championship year. Author David Finoli tells the story of one of the most dramatic turnarounds in college football history.
Greatness in sport is both undefinable and immediately recognizable. Though it is rare, Western Pennsylvania has been graced with a long history of athletes who embody the essence of greatness. They have proudly represented the region in sports such as boxing, golf and track; carried their collegiate teams to victory; and worn the black and gold of the Steelers, Pirates and Penguins. Pittsburghers still recall how Mario Lemieux glided effortlessly through an opposing defense before befuddling the goalie or Arnie Palmer's unique swing that made the everyday duffer feel like he was one of them. Fans debate whether Bradshaw or Roethlisberger is the better quarterback and what the legacy of Barry Bonds is, while keeping Roberto Clemente among their most cherished icons. Author David Finoli covers the greatest fifty men and women athletes in Pittsburgh history.