Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Pirates Embrace "Hoist the Cone" Tradition Amidst Winning Streak
4/7/2026, 12:04:01 PM
Celebrating a New Tradition
The Pittsburgh Pirates are experiencing a successful season, marked by a unique celebration among players and fans: lifting a traffic cone. This quirky tradition, dubbed "hoist the cone," has gained traction, with merchandise such as t-shirts selling well at the PNC Park store. Assistant store manager Lauren Torgent noted, “Oh, people love the t-shirt. We've had people all weekend come in asking for a 'hoist the cone' t-shirt,” highlighting the enthusiasm surrounding this new phenomenon.
Origins of "Hoist the Cone"
The origins of the "hoist the cone" phrase are somewhat unclear. It is believed to have emerged as part of a broader tradition where a player hitting a home run dons a welder's mask, symbolizing Pittsburgh's blue-collar roots. The traffic cone's introduction into the celebration may stem from a printing error by Fanatics, the company managing the Pirates' merchandise, which allegedly misprinted "raise the colors" as "hoist the cone." Torgent remarked on the ambiguity, stating, “We're kind of just leaving it up to speculation and take it however you want to take it.”
Community Engagement and Merchandise
The "hoist the cone" trend has not only captivated fans but also fostered community engagement. Torgent reported that fans have been creatively incorporating the cone into their attire, with sightings of cone earrings and costumes at the stadium. However, the celebration has not been without its challenges; ABM Parking's Mid-Atlantic district manager reported that over two dozen cones were stolen on opening day, which poses a financial burden for replacement.
Impact on Fan Experience
The excitement surrounding "hoist the cone" has transformed the fan experience at Pirates games. Torgent noted, “It's been a wonderful experience,” reflecting the positive atmosphere this tradition has created. The phrase has evolved beyond its initial context, with various interpretations and merchandise variations emerging, further solidifying its place in Pirates culture.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite the enthusiasm, some concerns have been raised regarding the theft of traffic cones. The district manager emphasized the cost implications of replacing stolen cones, suggesting that while the tradition is fun, it has also led to unintended consequences.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Oh, people love the t-shirt,” — Lauren Torgent, Assistant Store Manager
- “We're kind of just leaving it up to speculation and take it however you want to take it,” — Lauren Torgent, Assistant Store Manager
- “We've had people all weekend come in asking for a 'hoist the cone' t-shirt, people bringing cones into the store, the stadium, everything, so it's been a wonderful experience.” — Lauren Torgent, Assistant Store Manager
The "hoist the cone" tradition encapsulates the spirit of the Pittsburgh Pirates' current season, blending humor, community engagement, and a touch of mystery, while also highlighting the challenges that can accompany such a lively celebration.
