Clemente's Wall: An Insult to a Legacy (and a Trip Back to '06)
How could they disrespect a legend like this?
I'm still reeling from what I saw online today. Seeing that the Pirates replaced Roberto Clemente's No. 21 on the right-field wall with an advertisement is beyond disappointing. It's downright disrespectful. It hits me hard, reminding me of a cherished memory from 2006.
Back then, I was lucky enough to attend the MLB All-Star Game at PNC Park. I sat next to a man from Oakland (the Pittsburgh neighborhood) who shared heartwarming stories about Roberto Clemente. He told me about how Bobby would visit his dad's shop on the way to the ballpark, and how they'd sometimes play catch. Clemente wasn't just a baseball player; he was a part of their community. He was a hero. Replacing his number with an ad feels like a slap in the face to his legacy and everything he stood for.
That right field wall should be a monument to Clemente's values, not a space for corporate sponsors. Instead of an advertisement, it should display his powerful quote:
"Any time you have an opportunity to make a difference in this world and you don't, then you are wasting your time on Earth."
Roberto Clemente was more than just a number; he was a symbol of compassion, integrity, and making a difference.
The Pirates need to understand that and honor him accordingly.