1983 Pittsburgh Pirates

1983 Pittsburgh Pirates / Franchise: Pittsburgh Pirates / BR Team Page

Record: 84-78, Finished 2nd in NL Eastern Division (1983 NL)

Managed by Chuck Tanner

Coaches: Harvey Haddix, Joe Lonnett, Al Monchak and Bob Skinner

Ballpark: Three Rivers Stadium

History, Comments, Contributions

The 1983 Pittsburgh Pirates were a last gasp of the dominant team of the 1970s. Strong pitching was the hallmark of this Pirate squad, that came into September leading the NL East. John Candelaria, Rick Rhoden, Larry McWilliams, Lee Tunnell and Jose DeLeon were an incredibly strong starting cast, and the team ERA of 3.55 was 4th in the NL that season. The offense was enhanced by probably the strongest bench the Pirates had had since 1979. The pitching though wasn't enough, and although still in first at the late date of September 17th, the [1983 Phillies|Philadelphia Phillies']] better pitching pulled away and won the division. Although the Pirates ended with an 84-78 record, identical with that of the 1982 squad, that team had not been a threat to win a division title.

Awards and Honors

• All-Star: Bill Madlock
• NL Gold Glove: Tony Pena (C)
• NL Silver Slugger Award: Johnny Ray (2B)