Pirates Fans Brave Cold Temperatures For Opening Day

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- The sun was doing it's part, but the brisk winds kept the traditional early tailgating crowd down on Sunday. But the weather didn't deter Mary Himler from being first in line long before the gates opened at PNC Park.

"It's because of my grandson Owen," she said with a smile.

Arriving with snow on their cars, some fans made a pit stop for a bit of cold weather Pirates gear.

Everyone was ready for opening day.

"Just a brand new start of the season, the excitement, hope for a good year," Cindy Southern said.

When your team wins 98 games, there are plenty of accolades to be recognized. Starling Marte, Andrew McCutchen, Mark Melancon, and the Pirates 2015 organization were all honored.

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With the 2016 Pirates lining the third baseline, Jackie Evanko's incredible voice filled the ballpark. Pitt running back James Connor, whose battle with cancer has been inspirational, threw the first pitch.

"It was a lot of fun, just love the city of Pittsburgh, it's like a second home to me I love the fan base it meant a lot to me," Connor said.

With his first pitch, Francisco Lirano began the 2016 Major League Baseball season.

There were two games going on Sunday: The Pirates versus the Cardinals and the fans versus the cold. Heaters were stationed in the dugouts and the concourses.

Elsewhere blankets, the sun, and the Pirates jumping out to a lead were all the warmth fans needed.

"Been waiting all winter, it's Spring now, we've got the best seats in the house," said Captain Chris with Renegades of the Rotunda. "And the Bucs are back in town!"