Pittsburgh Pirates

Pirates move up home start times in 2021

PITTSBURGH — Baseball games are taking longer to play, but in 2021, the Pirates are making sure fans who go to the game can still get home at a reasonable hour.

The Pirates are changing their home schedule to more “family-friendly” times, playing weekday night games in April, May and September at 6:35 p.m. rather than 7:05 p.m.. Sunday afternoon games throughout the season will be played at 1:05 p.m. instead of 1:35 p.m.

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“We have spent a lot of time listening to our Season Ticket Holders and fans and are making many changes to the fan experience based on their feedback,” Pirates president Travis Williams said. “In 2021, one of the changes everyone will be able to take advantage of is the earlier game times before Memorial Day and after Labor Day. These changes were made to accommodate family schedules and allow more fans the opportunity to attend a weekday game while still balancing their daily routines.”

The Pirates' home opener will be Apr. 8 against the Cubs, with first pitch scheduled for 1:35 p.m..

And yes, the plan is to have fans in the stands.

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