Pirates’ Spring Training facilities damaged during Hurricane Milton

The Pirates’ Spring Training homes of LECOM Park and Pirate City in Bradenton, Fla. sustained damage late Wednesday night as Hurricane Milton tore through Florida’s Gulf Coast.

Both facilities are standing, but the batter’s eye and fencing between fields at Pirate City, as well as the outfield wall at LECOM Park, were among the damage that hit Bradenton and its neighboring cities.

“While we appreciate the curiosity, this pales in comparison to what others are facing in the wake of both Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton,” senior vice president of communications and broadcasting Brian Warecki said in a released statement. “We continue to work alongside Bradenton area first responders and willing to help in any way we can.”

The Pirates split their time each spring between the two locations, first opening at Pirate City before moving to LECOM Park at the start of the Grapefruit League season. After the Major League camp leaves for LECOM Park, Minor League Spring Training takes over at Pirate City.

The expectation is that the Bradenton facilities will be ready for a normal Spring Training. The Pirates’ first home Spring Training game is set for Feb. 23 against the Twins.

You can join MLB in supporting recovery efforts following Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Your donation enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from this disaster. Go to redcross.org/MLB.