The 50 Greatest Players in Pittsburgh Pirates History

The Pittsburgh Pirates have a vast and celebrated history dating back to 1887, winning five World Championships and nine National League pennants since their inception. Many baseball legends have called Pittsburgh home, including Hall of Famers Honus Wagner, Roberto Clemente, Paul Waner, and Arky Vaughan. Although the Pirates have had their fair share of losing seasons, recent postseason appearances have brought life back into this storied franchise. The 50 Greatest Players in Pittsburgh Pirates History celebrates the best to ever wear a Pirate uniform. David Finoli carefully and diligently ranks the Steel City icons based on statistics, awards, achievements, and postseason success. Each entry includes biographical information, accomplishments, and recaps of the player's greatest moments. In addition to stories of glory on the field, Finoli also shares important events that took place away from the diamond, such as Roberto Clemente personally bringing supplies to earthquake-ravaged Nicaragua, a selfless act that led to his tragic death. Two concluding chapters cover the ten Pirates who almost made the cut and the players who went on to greatness after leaving the Pittsburgh organization. More than 25 photographs throughout the book enhance the rankings of these Pittsburgh legends. Sure to inspire debate and controversy among Pirate fans old and new, The 50 Greatest Players in Pittsburgh Pirates History isan engaging look at the many players who have been a part of the franchise's long and memorable history.

David Finoli

Acknowledgments Introduction Rankings Chapter 1: Honus Wagner Chapter 2: Roberto Clemente Chapter 3: Paul Waner Chapter 4: Willie Stargell Chapter 5: Ralph Kiner Chapter 6: Dave Parker Chapter 7: Barry Bonds Chapter 8: Joseph Vaughan Chapter 9: Harold Traynor Chapter 10: Charles Adams Chapter 11: Andrew McCutchen Chapter 12: Max Carey Chapter 13: Bill Mazeroski Chapter 14: Lloyd Waner Chapter 15: Wilbur Cooper Chapter 16: Fred Clarke Chapter 17: Roy Face Chapter 18: Sam Leever Chapter 19: Deacon Phillippe Chapter 20: Hazen Cuyler Chapter 21: Ray Kremer Chapter 22: Vern Law Chapter 23: Bob Friend Chapter 24: Andy Van Slyke Chapter 25: Dick Groat Chapter 26: Clarence Beaumont Chapter 27: Tommy Leach Chapter 28: Al Oliver Chapter 29: Jesse Tannehill Chapter 30: Doug Drabek Chapter 31: Brian Giles Chapter 32: John Candelaria Chapter 33: Vic Willis Chapter 34: Manny Sanguillen Chapter 35: Kent Tekulve Chapter 36: Bobby Bonilla Chapter 37: Bill Madlock Chapter 38: Truett Sewell Chapter 39: Matty Alou Chapter 40: Frank Killen Chapter 41: Howie Camnitz Chapter 42: Glenn Wright Chapter 43: Elmer Smith Chapter 44: Jason Kendall Chapter 45: Gus Suhr Chapter 46: Tony Pena Chapter 47: Frank Thomas Chapter 48: George Grantham Chapter 49: Steve Blass Chapter 50: Jason Bay On the Outside Looking In: The Next 10 Pittsburgh Pirates What Could Have Been: The 10 Pittsburgh Pirates Who Became Stars after They Left Notes Bibliography Index About the Author