Pirates: We Will Play During G20

The Pittsburgh Pirates says they are not going to let the G20 summit put a damper on their plans. While several other businesses and organizations are closing September 24th and 25th as thousands of reporters, protesters and delegates descend on the golden triangle, the Pirates say they will hold their games as normal. The Pirates have a day game against the Cincinnati Reds Thursday and then host the Los Angeles Dodgers Friday, September 25. Pirates President Frank Coonelly says, "With a day game scheduled for Thursday before the meetings begin and a night game scheduled for Friday after the meetings have adjourned, we have a tremendous opportunity to show guests visiting Pittsburgh from across the globe America's national pastime played in the 'Best Ballpark in America.'" Coonelly says his organization consulted with the Mayor's Office, the Police Department and the federal authorities before making the decision. He says the Pirates have been approached by numerous groups that will be in town for the G20 Summit that were interested in adding a Pirates game to their schedule of activities. Road closures downtown are expected to begin Wednesday evening after rush hour and rolling road closures could happen at anytime. Details on the closures are expected much closer to the event.