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Pirates working to fix wanding procedure

PITTSBURGH — The use of metal-detecting wands to search fans who attended Tuesday night’s Pirates game created long lines that prompted an apology from President Frank Coonelly during the game.

In a statement Wednesday, Coonelly said, “On behalf of the Pirates organization, I again apologize to our fans for the long lines at the gates prior to last night’s game due to increased security measures. While we expected to experience some growing pains in implementing the use of medal detecting wands at the gates, the experience last night was unacceptable. That cannot and will not happen again.”

The use of the wands was part of a plan to increase security at PNC Park in light of April’s Boston Marathon bombing.

In preparation for the changes, the Pirates organization asked fans not to bring unnecessary bags and metal objects. Despite this request, lines continued to grow up until game time, when the wanding procedure was stopped.

Coonelly said the lines at the gates were cleared by the end of the first inning.

“We are constantly working to provide our fans with the best experience possible at PNC Park. The safety of our guests will always be a top priority, and thus, we remain committed to the use of medal detecting wands. However, we have made adjustments to our staffing, gate access points and procedures,” said Coonelly.