In 1946, the long era of ownership by the Barney Dreyfuss family came to an end when it sold the team to a syndicate that was led by Indianapolis businessman Frank McKinney. The group also included singer Bing Crosby, Pittsburgh attorney Thomas P. Johnson, and Columbus, Ohio-based real estate tycoon John W. Galbreath.

Pittsburgh pitcher Sam Leever injured his shoulder while trap-shooting, so his teammate Deacon Phillippe pitched five complete games in the 1903 World Series, winning three. It wasn't enough, with the Boston Americans prevailing five games to three, winning the last four.

The sports world was stunned and saddened when Roberto Clemente died in a plane crash on December 31, 1972, while accompanying a shipment of relief supplies to the victims of an earthquake in Nicaragua. The Baseball Hall of Fame waived its usual waiting requirement and inducted Clemente immediately.

The team was severely crippled during the 1890 season, when nearly all of their stars jumped ship to join the Pittsburgh Burghers of the Players' League. With a decimated roster, the team experienced what is still the worst season in franchise history, going 23-113.

Steve Blass helped the Pirates win four National League Eastern Division titles in five years between 1970 and 1974. He also played a key role in the Pirates victory over the Baltimore Orioles in the 1971 World Series, recording two complete game victories. After his playing career ended, Blass had a 34-year career as a television sports commentator for Pittsburgh Pirates games.