The 1979 Pirates didn’t care about how things were supposed to look. They swung sledgehammers in the on-deck circle, blasted disco in the locker room, and displayed unity. Willie Stargell was the steady hand, the heartbeat. One of the most feared hitters in MLB was Dave Parker, who looked like a villain in a horror film with his signature batting mask. Their pitching staff remains one of the most underrated in the history of baseball. In the summer of 1979, Sister Sledge’s We Are Family brought both the city and the clubhouse together for a remarkable run.
They came back from a 3–1 hole in the World Series because they believed in each other more than anything else. That kind of team doesn’t come around often, and you don’t fake that kind of chemistry. You either have it or you don’t. The '79 Pirates had it.
We Are Family Theme Song
The "We Are Family" theme song became the heart and soul of the 1979 Pittsburgh Pirates, embodying their unity and unshakable bond as a team. Originally a hit by Sister Sledge, the song was adopted mid-season and quickly became a rallying cry both in the clubhouse and in the stands. It wasn’t just a catchy tune; it symbolized the camaraderie that defined the Pirates' success that year. The team, led by the charismatic Willie Stargell, embraced the song as a reminder that they were stronger together than as individuals. It gave the Pirates a distinct identity and emotional connection to their fans, who adopted it as their own anthem, adding to the aura of the "We Are Family" mentality. The song was a beacon of positivity and energy, helping the Pirates stay focused and confident throughout the ups and downs of the season, including their dramatic World Series comeback. Few times in sports history has a team, city, and song come together so seamlessly.
The Famous Dave Parker Mask
Dave Parker’s famous face mask, worn after a cheekbone injury early in the 1979 season, became an enduring symbol of both his toughness and the Pirates' gritty, no-nonsense attitude. The black football-style mask was eye-catching and intimidating, embodying Parker’s presence on the field. It was an emblem of resilience, showing Parker’s determination to continue playing at a high level despite the injury. The mask became a symbol for the entire team, signaling that they were unafraid and would do whatever it took to win. Parker’s mask was a reminder that, like the team itself, the Pirates were tough, fearless, and ready to fight through adversity.
The Sledgehammer Warmups
The sledgehammer warmups performed by Pirates players, most notably Willie Stargell, were a defining ritual that gave the team a larger-than-life persona and showcased their unique approach to the game. Players would take turns swinging sledgehammers in the on-deck circle to loosen up before their at-bats, a practice that became synonymous with their physical toughness and blue-collar spirit. The sledgehammer, often wielded by Stargell, was a reminder to stay loose and have fun, reinforcing the “We Are Family” mentality that defined their season. The sight of players preparing for battle with sledgehammers in hand made it clear.
Nowaday players from other teams have started mimicking this iconic tradition, as though it's their own original idea. These rituals that once defined a unique and historic team, and helped establish the Pirates’ identity, are now being copied with no acknowledgment of the players who made them famous. It feels like a cheap imitation, something that kind of echoes through baseball today.
The 1979 World Series
The 1979 World Series was a thrilling, dramatic clash between the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Baltimore Orioles, marked by standout performances that would go down in history. Willie Stargell, the team's leader, was the undeniable MVP of the Series, delivering some of the most clutch moments with his bat. His 5 home runs and 13 RBIs, including a crucial 2-HR performance in Game 7, anchored the Pirates' offense. Alongside him, Kent Tekulve became an unsung hero out of the bullpen, picking up 2 saves and keeping the Orioles’ powerful lineup at bay in critical moments. Dave Parker, though quiet with his bat in terms of home runs, contributed significantly with his defensive play, including a game-saving throw from right field in Game 1, showcasing his all-around abilities. Bert Blyleven also stepped up, winning Game 5 with a 2.57 ERA performance to keep the Pirates alive in their comeback bid.
One of the most memorable games came in Game 7, where the Pirates sealed their victory with a 4–1 win, clinching the title. Stargell’s leadership was on full display, and Jim Bibby, though not the star of the game, contributed solid innings that kept the Orioles from making a comeback. Omar Moreno, with his speed and tenacity, also played a crucial role by getting on base in key moments. The Pirates' resilience after falling behind 3–1 in the series showcased their "We Are Family" spirit. Their ability to rally, from Game 5's come-from-behind win to their dominant finish, solidified the 1979 Pirates as one of the most unforgettable teams in baseball history.
1979 Pittsburgh Pirates Key Players
Willie Stargell
1979 Season: .281 BA, 32 HR, 82 RBI, .352 OBP
1979 World Series: .415 BA, 5 HR, 13 RBI, .435 OBP
Willie “Pops” Stargell was the heart and soul of the 1979 Pirates, both as a player and a leader. A towering power hitter, Stargell’s deep home runs and clutch hitting were key to the team’s success. He was known for his big personality and ability to rally the team, often bringing the guys together with his warmth and humor. His leadership earned him the National League MVP and World Series MVP in 1979. Off the field, he was a mentor to younger players, and his "We Are Family" mantra stuck with the team throughout their magical season.
Dave Parker
1979 Season: .310 BA, 25 HR, 94 RBI, .380 OBP
1979 World Series: .341 BA, 0 HR, 6 RBI, .396 OBP
Dave Parker was a dynamic force both at the plate and in the field. With a cannon arm and power to match, “The Cobra” could take over a game with a single swing or a breathtaking throw. He was a smooth hitter with a combination of power and consistency that made him one of the top players of his era. Known for his swagger and confidence, Parker's presence on the field was as intimidating as his bat. His World Series performance helped lead the Pirates to victory, even though his bat didn’t leave the yard.
Bill Robinson
1979 Season: .264 BA, 24 HR, 75 RBI, .314 OBP
1979 World Series: .167 BA, 0 HR, 0 RBI, .286 OBP
Bill Robinson was a steady and dependable player, known for his quiet demeanor and strong bat. He was a consistent run producer, playing mostly in left field, but also had a reputation for being a clutch hitter when needed. Although his World Series numbers weren’t stellar, Robinson’s impact on the team wasn’t lost — he was a key figure in getting them to that point. Off the field, Robinson was known for his unassuming personality and focus, leading by example rather than through vocal leadership.
Bill Madlock
1979 Season: .328 BA, 6 HR, 28 RBI, .390 OBP (with Pirates only)
1979 World Series: .375 BA, 0 HR, 3 RBI, .375 OBP
Bill Madlock was a highly skilled hitter, known for his precision and ability to hit for average. Acquired midseason, Madlock brought a much-needed boost to the lineup with his disciplined approach at the plate. His calm demeanor and sharp bat made him a valuable addition to the Pirates’ offensive attack during the stretch run. He may not have been a power hitter, but his ability to get on base and produce key hits during the World Series were vital to the team's success.
Omar Moreno
1979 Season: .282 BA, 8 HR, 69 RBI, .333 OBP, 77 SB
1979 World Series: .333 BA, 0 HR, 2 RBI, .357 OBP
Omar Moreno was one of the fastest players in baseball, and his leadoff position allowed him to set the tone for the Pirates’ offense. Known for his blazing speed, he was a constant threat on the base paths, stealing 77 bases in 1979. On defense, he was a solid center fielder, covering ground with ease. His contributions to the World Series were understated, but his ability to get on base and make things happen helped push the Pirates to the title.
Bert Blyleven
1979 Season: 12–5 record, 3.60 ERA, 172.2 IP, 1.20 WHIP
1979 World Series: 1–0, 2.57 ERA, 7.0 IP, 4 K
Bert Blyleven was a workhorse pitcher who relied on a devastating curveball and excellent control to dominate hitters. Though not known for overpowering stuff, Blyleven’s ability to keep hitters off balance with his breaking ball made him a key part of the rotation. His steady presence and postseason experience were invaluable during the 1979 World Series, and his win in Game 5 helped turn the tide for the Pirates as they clawed back from a 3-1 deficit.
Kent Tekulve
1979 Season: 10–8 record, 2.75 ERA, 31 Saves, 1.08 WHIP
1979 World Series: 2 Saves, 2.08 ERA, 8.2 IP, 5 K
Kent Tekulve was the backbone of the Pirates’ bullpen, a sidewinding closer who could come in and shut down games with his unique, low-armed delivery. Known for his incredible durability and pinpoint control, Tekulve was a key asset in the World Series, earning two saves and solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer. Off the field, Tekulve was known for his cool and composed demeanor, never getting rattled in high-pressure situations.
Jim Bibby
1979 Season: 12–4 record, 2. 81 ERA
1979 World Series: 0-0, 3.00 ERA
Jim Bibby was a solid right-handed starter with a bulldog mentality. He was a big, imposing figure on the mound and threw hard with a combination of a strong fastball and an effective breaking ball. While his World Series appearance didn’t include a win, Bibby’s reliability during the regular season and his experience in big games made him a key piece in the Pirates' postseason run. He wasn’t flashy, but his consistency earned him a prominent role on the staff.
The Pittsburgh Family
Featuring the iconic protective mask worn by Dave Parker, a symbol of not just his resilience but also the team's intimidation factor as a powerful hitting force. This design seamlessly weaves the 'We Are Family' theme into the fabric, capturing the essence of their unity, resilience, and legendary status. Step into the spirit of a championship team that redefined intimidation and brotherhood, and relive the unconventional strength of their warm-up routine wielding sledgehammers. For fans who cherish the unforgettable legacy of the 1979 Pirates, the World Series champion.
