Local lawmaker wants Pirates franchise to be successful

(WKBN) – The Pirates hit the All-Star break in third place. They’re playing better, and that’s a start, but a state lawmaker who represents Mercer County feels they can do better, which would also help the region.

The Pirates have found another group of good young players. Paul Skenes will start Tuesday’s All-Star Game, but the path looks familiar to Representative Tim Bonner.

“We’ve seen players come and go, but we always see the pirates at or near the bottom of the standings,” Bonner said.

Bonner feels the team gives up its young stars when it comes time to pay them. Over the last thirty seasons, the Pirates have only had four winning seasons.

“Thirty years of what’s been happening in the Pirates organization has extremely upset myself — I’m sure many others in Western Pennsylvania,” Bonner said.

A study by the state’s independent fiscal office showed that if the Pirates would improve their win total by just three games a year, it would generate $76 million more in economic activity in the region.

The Pirates lease is coming up for renewal. Bonner wants some incentives built into it that would cause the Pirates to invest more in the team.

“Because a winning team on the field is a winning team for our community and our economy, and that just hasn’t occurred with current ownership.”

Bonner has been attending Pirates games since he was 9 years old. He knows the team can generate enthusiasm and excitement and wants to experience it again.

“I’m not saying we have to win a pennant. I’m just saying we have to be better.”

Bonner believes success on the field will drive attendance and increase economic activity across the region.

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