Pirates spend some time with residents at Concordia
JEFFERSON TWP — Lasting impressions were made on both sides as Pittsburgh Pirates players and members of the organization met with longtime fans during a visit Thursday to Concordia Lutheran Ministries.
Pirates' first baseman Josh Bell was there with assistant hitting coach Jacob Cruz and a couple of prospects, pitcher J.T. Brubaker of Indianapolis and Altoona shortstop Cole Tucker.
The players mingled with residents and handed out cookies and Pirates tassel caps.
Resident Norma Laughner, formerly of Slippery Rock, spent some time talking with Tucker.
“That shortstop is a really nice guy,” Laughner said.
Tucker and Cruz both posed for a photograph with Laughner, too.
Laughner said she has been a Pirates fan for 60 years, especially remembering games at old Forbes Field home of the team from 1909 until 1970.
“I listened to the radio in the old days,” Laughner said. “It was nice of them to take the time to come see us.”
Bell, who has been with the Pirates for three seasons, said visiting with fans gives players a boost before they head for spring training.
“It's a good change of scenery, to see some black and gold in the offseason,” Bell said.
Fans sometimes have connections with the club.
“I was talking with a gentleman who coached against Clint (Hurdle, Pirates' manager,) in high school,” Bell said.
The 26-year-old Texas native also made an impact on resident Carl Bracken, formerly of Scottdale.
“Josh Bell, I've liked him since he became a Pirate,” Bracken said. “I realized that in talking with him, he's a really nice guy. I think Josh has the potential to be a star.”
The Pirates are conducting PiratesFest on Saturday at PNC Park.
