Five Promotions We Want at PNC Park in 2013

We’ve collected numerous pieces of Pirates memorabilia over the years. Many of these souvenirs have been promotions handed out at the gates of the ballpark. While it’s not a major factor in choosing which games to attend, it is still nice to receive a “gift” from the game.

With our 20-game plan this year, most promotions were fireworks. There weren’t really any true giveaways besides a few free shirts, a hat, and the Joel Hanrahan bobblehead. Despite being a fan-favorite, the Pirates have drastically decreased the amount of bobblehead giveaways over the years. Free Shirt Fridays are solid, but essentially the only item given to fans on a consistent basis. In our opinion, the promotional schedule has been pretty bland as of late. Therefore, here are five promotions we want to see at PNC next season.

1. A.J. Burnett Replica Tattoo Arm Sleeve

Everyone has seen A.J.’s sick tattoos – why not make a sleeve out of them? We think this would make for a cool giveaway.

2. Andrew McCutchen Replica Dreadlocks

Andrew McCutchen is probably one of the most recognizable Pirates – not only due to his playing ability, but also because of his dreadlocks. The Altoona Curve, double-A affiliate of the Bucs, held a promotion this past season that contained fake dreads attached to a cap:

This has the potential to be a popular collectible, especially for kids.

3. Jeff Karstens Derp Mask

If you’ve been on social media networks over the past year, you’ve probably seen various pictures of Jeff Karstens making ridiculous faces. While a bit far-fetched, a Karstens mask would be quite hilarious.

4. Pedro Alvarez “El Toro” Bobblehead

As we said, bobbleheads have recently been lacking. The classic bobbleheads are nice items for collectors, but why not switch it up a bit? Incorporate Pedro Alvarez’s nickname, El Toro (meaning “the bull” in Spanish), and put a bull head on top.

5. Kyle Stark “Hoka Hey” Action Figure

Kyle Stark, the assistant GM who enforces special training methods, deserves his own promotion. Rather than critiquing baseball skills, minor leaguers train like Navy SEALS. Therefore, we think it’s fitting for Stark to have an action figure, just like G.I. Joe.

Promotions aren’t as necessary to attract fans to PNC as they were a few seasons ago, when the Bucs were far more abysmal. However, it’s still cool to receive such items upon entering the stadium. Free shirts are legit, but what else is there? The giveaways have been pretty dull.

We’re just having some fun with these five ideas, and the chances of them happening are <0.1%. Regardless, we think the Pirates should step it up and offer some unique promotions next season.

Let us know if you have any promotional ideas of your own.