81 seasons and 6000 games

Phil Coyne has seen more baseball than anyone, ever. The 99 year old began his illustrious career in 1936. Let’s put that in prospective for a moment. He saw Babe Ruth play, he watched Honus Wagner coach, Joe DiMaggio was a rookie when he started and Sandy Koufax was just born. Incredible.

Coyne has worked the sections 26 and 27 of 3 different Pittsburgh stadiums; Forbe Field, Three Rivers and PNC Park. For his work and dedication, the Pittsburgh City Council designated August 27th2017 “Phil Coyne Day”. He was also given a team numbered 99 jersey with his name on it in honor of his service. Phil’s last absence from a ballpark before now was to fight in World War II.

Coyne is retiring after falling earlier in the season. The Pirates will celebrate him and his career on April 27ththis year. The man is a walking encyclopedia of Pirates history from watching Bill Mazerowski’s walk-off home run in the ninth inning of Game 7 of the 1960 World Series to Roberto Clemente and then Barry Bonds. He’s seen it all. Congratulations, Phil, on an amazing career.

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