Pittsburgh Pirates: Bringing Back the Sea of Black

On October 1, 2013, the Pittsburgh Pirates faced off against the Cincinnati Reds in the National League Wild Card Game. The atmosphere at PNC Park was electric, with over 40,000 fans dressed in black, creating a sea of black and a little bit of gold. The Pittsburgh Pirates were making their first playoff appearance in 21 years and the fans were ready to cheer their team to victory.

The game started off quietly, with both teams unable to score in the first inning and a half. However, in the bottom of the second inning, the Pirates quickly took control of the game. Marlon Byrd and Russell Martin hit back-to-back home runs, giving the Pirates a 2-0 lead. Martin's home run was especially memorable, as it came after Reds pitcher Johnny Cueto dropped the ball on the mound, prompting the fans to mockingly chant his name. A moment that fans will never forget.

The fans of the Pittsburgh Pirates continued to play a major role in the game, cheering every hit and strikeout, and creating a raucous atmosphere that made it difficult for the Reds to communicate on the field. In the bottom of the seventh inning, Martin hit his second home run of the game, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The Reds managed to score one run in the eighth inning, but it was not enough to overcome the Pirates' lead. The Pirates went on to win the game 6-2, securing their first playoff victory in over two decades.

The impact of the fans cannot be overstated in this game. Their enthusiasm and support created a home-field advantage that the Pirates used to their advantage. The team even had a "Black Out" for the game, with fans encouraged to wear black clothing to show their support. The black-clad fans created an intimidating environment for the Reds, and the team has brought that moment back for their home opener this year, in recognition of its importance to the team and fans alike.

The Pittsburgh Pirates and Andrew McCutchen have once again asked all fans to wear Black to the Home Opener.

The 2013 Wild Card victory was a momentous occasion for the Pirates and their fans, a symbol of the team's resurgence and a new era of success. The impact of the fans cannot be understated, as they helped create an unforgettable night of baseball at PNC Park. The Organization is trying to recreate that atmosphere, that excitement, heck they are bringing in AJ Burnett and Russell Martin for the first pitch.