Guest collapses, rushed to hospital during Pirates' workout

BRADENTON, Fla. -- A guest of the Pirates experienced a cardiac event at Pirate City on Tuesday that required immediate medical attention, and he was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.

The guest, a member of the local chamber of commerce, collapsed on the outfield grass while shagging batting practice. Dr. Patrick DeMeo -- a chairman of orthopedics at Allegheny Health Network and the medical director for the Pirates since the 2002 season -- rushed to the individual and performed CPR. The Pirates said the guest was alert and responsive as he was transported into an ambulance.

“I can’t give enough credit to our group and how quickly they were responsive,” said manager Derek Shelton.

Members of the Pirates convened on the infield as the situation unfolded, providing Shelton with an opportunity to inform the entire team about the developing situation.

The Pirates resumed practice once the guest was transported into an ambulance.