1961 Pittsburgh Pirates

1961 Pittsburgh Pirates / Franchise: Pittsburgh Pirates / BR Team Page

Record: 75-79, Finished 6th in National League (1961 NL)

Managed by Danny Murtaugh

Coaches: Bill Burwell, Len Levy, Sam Narron, Ron Northey and Frank Oceak

Ballpark: Forbes Field

History, Comments, Contributions

After the unforgettable triumph over the New York Yankees in the 1960 World Series, the 1961 Pittsburgh Pirates fell back to Earth, never setting foot in the pennant race. The loss of Cy Young Award winner Vern Law (3-4, 4.70 ERA) to injuries decimated the starting rotation, while several key players slumped, most notably 1960 NL MVP Dick Groat. The lone standouts were first baseman Dick Stuart (35 HRs, 117 RBI) and right fielder Roberto Clemente, who took his first National League batting title, hitting .351 with good power (30 doubles, 10 trips, 23 home runs.)

Awards and Honors

• All-Stars: Smoky Burgess, Roberto Clemente, Roy Face and Dick Stuart
• NL Gold Glove: Roberto Clemente (OF), Bill Mazeroski (2B) and Bobby Shantz (P)