Former Pittsburgh Pirates player Jason Kendall is set to return to the city for the team’s home opener. Kendall, along with Brian Giles, will participate in a ceremonial first pitch prior to the Pirates’ game against the Orioles.
Kendall’s Fond Memories of Pittsburgh
Kendall expressed his excitement about returning to Pittsburgh, where he spent nine seasons. Drafted by the Pirates in 1992, Kendall debuted in 1996. He hit .306 during his time with the team and was an All-Star in 1996, ’98 and 2000.
Beyond the statistics, Kendall feels a deep connection to Pittsburgh. He acknowledges the city’s demanding nature, suggesting that performing well there equips a player to succeed anywhere. “Pittsburgh is a tough city,” Kendall said. “A lot of people say, ‘If you can play in Boston or New York … .’ No, if you can play in Pennsylvania, you can play anywhere.”
He also added, “Pirates fans watched me grow up. I probably said some things I shouldn’t have said sometimes, but I had great times there. Pittsburgh has always been my second home.”
Giles’ Career Transformation in Pittsburgh
Brian Giles also remembers seeing PNC Park for the first time and being amazed by its beauty. Giles was acquired by the Pirates in a trade. He recalls how Pittsburgh transformed his career.
Giles said, “It’s gonna be a lot of fun.”
In Pittsburgh, Giles hit 74 home runs in his first two seasons. The year PNC Park opened was especially dominant for Giles, who slashed .309/.404/.590 and had 37 doubles, 37 home runs and 95 RBIs in 160 games.
Following the Current Pirates Team
Despite being retired, both Kendall and Giles continue to follow the Pirates. Kendall is impressed with the current team, particularly their pitching staff. “This team is so good,” Kendall said.
He also said, “I was fortunate to see [Paul] Skenes when I was in Houston and Miami. He’s just fun to watch. More than anything, his routine. I could sit there and watch his routine all day. That’s what makes pitchers good.”
Kendall added, “Their whole staff is amazing. I think Henry Davis has become one of the best catchers in the game. I can’t wait. It’ll be fun to come back to where it all started.”