The Pittsburgh Pirates announced today the plans for their Play Ball 2016 baseball event scheduled for Saturday, May 21 at PNC Park. The Pirates will host youth between the ages of 5 and 12 years old from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. for fun baseball activities in and around PNC Park.
The event is free of charge and open to all area youth ages 5 to 12 years of age, but advanced registration is required. Registration is now open as fans are asked to visit pirates.com/playball. After registration, a follow-up email will be sent from the Pirates confirming registration and requesting additional information.*
Registration is limited and based upon availability and will be filled on a first-come-first-served basis.
The early morning session (8 to 10 a.m.) for ages 5 to 9 years old, will be held on the field at PNC Park and will include interactive baseball/softball related activities including hitting a whiffle ball off a tee, catching baseballs in the outfield, learning to throw and hit a catcher's target in the bullpen, and more. The late morning/afternoon session (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) for ages 10 to 12 years old, will take place on Federal Street and will include batting cages, a speed pitch booth, baseball technology education, and a whiffle ball home run derby.
Each session will be staffed by Pirates front office personnel, local youth baseball coaches, the Bucco Brigade, Pirates mascots and more. For complete information and a schedule of sessions please visit pirates.com/playball.
Play Ball activities on Federal Street will remain open for all children, registered and non-registered, to enjoy prior to the Pirates 4:05 p.m. game vs the Colorado Rockies at PNC Park.
Participating youth are asked to wear tennis shoes only (no spikes will be permitted) and a fielder's glove is recommended. Colored wristbands will be distributed at registration (pre-assigned) to identify individual groups.
For more information on MLB's Play Ball program, visit PlayBall.org. The site serves as the initiative's online home and is complete with coaching tips and parent resources. PlayBall.org also gives parents, coaches and kids information on how to participate in Play Ball activities, links to youth-related news and events, and searchable maps to help find local community leagues. Health and safety information, including the Pitch Smart and Play Sun Smart programs, are also available.
*Please Note: You MUST receive a confirmation email from the Pirates to ensure your child is registered.