Pirates, 29 other MLB clubs pledge $1 million each to aid ballpark workers during stoppage

The Pittsburgh Pirates have joined 29 other Major League Baseball teams in pledging $1 million each for ballpark workers who will lose income because of the delay to the start of the season.

The season is not expected to start until at least mid-May due to the coronavirus, and many workers are paid by the game.

“We are doing everything possible to minimize the strain this situation will have on our employees and their families,” Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting said in a statement. “This crisis has impacted every person, family and business throughout our community.

“Coming together in difficult times to support one another is what Pittsburgh is all about.”

Statement from Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting on the commitment to PNC Park employees: pic.twitter.com/EITHdDxI0T

— Pirates (@Pirates) March 17, 2020

Commissioner Rob Manfred also issued a statement.

“Over the past 48 hours, I have been approached by representatives of all 30 clubs to help assist the thousands of ballpark employees affected by the delay,” he said. “Motivated by desire to help some of the most valuable members of the baseball community, each club has committed $1 million.”

“The individual clubs will be announcing more details surrounding this support effort in their local communities. The timing of these announcements will vary because of the need to coordinate with state and local laws as well as collective bargaining obligations in an effort to maximize the benefits realized by each group of employees.”

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