The Pittsburgh Pirates today announced plans to celebrate former infielder and beloved alumnus Josh Harrison, who will officially retire as a member of the organization on Friday, August 7. The celebration will include a press conference on Friday. The following day, Saturday, August 8, the Pirates will honor Harrison with a commemorative T-shirt giveaway for the first 20,000 fans through the gates at PNC Park, a special pregame ceremony, a game-time first pitch, and more.
Harrison played 13 seasons in the Major Leagues, including eight seasons (2011-2018) with the Pirates after making his Major League debut with the club on May 31, 2011, collecting two hits in a 5-1 win at New York (NL). During his time with the Pirates, Harrison was a two-time National League All-Star (2014, 2017), the team’s 2014 Heart and Hustle Award winner, and was a member of the Gold Medal-winning Team USA in the 2017 World Baseball Classic.
“Throughout his career, Josh Harrison embodied what it means to be a Pittsburgh Pirate: a gritty, hardworking player, a great teammate and a kind person who was always gracious with his time. He was and remains a cherished member of our organization,” said Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting. “Josh is incredibly deserving of this celebration, and we look forward to honoring him alongside his family and friends in front of our fans at PNC Park.”
Harrison, affectionately referred to as JHay, was known for his versatility and high energy and was a key member of the Pirates’ 2013-15 postseason teams. During his breakout season of 2014, he slashed .315/.347/.490, finished second in the N.L. batting race, and earned his first N.L. All-Star selection as well as several MVP votes.
Few players in Pirates history displayed the hustle and grit Harrison did as he played five positions (2B, 3B, SS, LF, RF) during his eight seasons with the Bucs, and became known as an elusive baserunner, energizing fans and teammates with his escapability on the basepaths.