The Pittsburgh Pirates are set to celebrate the career of Josh Harrison, a beloved player who has left an indelible mark on the team and its fans. On August 7th and 8th, the Pirates will honor Harrison with a series of events, marking his official retirement as a member of the team. This celebration is a testament to Harrison's impact on the organization and the city of Pittsburgh, and it's a well-deserved tribute to a player who embodied the spirit of the Pirates.
Harrison's time with the Pirates was marked by a gritty, hardworking attitude and a commitment to his teammates and the city. He played eight seasons with the team, reaching the MLB All-Star Game in 2014 and 2017, and was named the team's Heart and Hustle Award winner in the first of those two All-Star years. His best statistical season came in 2014, when he was worth 5.9 wins above replacement, finishing second in the National League batting race with a .315 average and an .837 OPS in 143 games.
The Pirates organization, led by Chairman Bob Nutting, has shown its appreciation for Harrison's contributions. Nutting praised Harrison's dedication, stating, '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.' This sentiment reflects the deep connection between Harrison and the team, as well as his impact on the city.
Harrison's connection to Pittsburgh goes beyond his on-field achievements. He and his family have been embraced by the city's fans, who treated his wife, Brittney, and their daughters, Mia and Kinsli, with respect and warmth. This sense of community and support is what makes Pittsburgh so special, and it's a testament to the city's ability to create lasting bonds with its athletes.
The celebration of Harrison's career is a reminder of the impact that athletes can have on their communities. It's not just about the statistics or the wins; it's about the relationships built, the memories made, and the lasting impressions left on fans and the city itself. As Harrison reflects, 'The city means a lot to us. It's our home away from home. I had some of my better years in Pittsburgh and grew a lot. That’s where me and my family started. For it to come full circle is really special.'
The events of August 7th and 8th will be a fitting send-off for a player who has given so much to the Pirates and the city. It's a celebration of a career that has brought energy, excitement, and a sense of community to the team and its fans. As Harrison prepares to retire, he can look back on a legacy that will forever be intertwined with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
