Official announcement from MLBPA or Pittsburgh Pirates

MLBPA Sues Pirates, Sheetz Over Player Images; Verbal Agreement Reached in $100,000 Deal

Aug 15, 2024, 12:00 AM

The Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) has filed a federal lawsuit against the Pittsburgh Pirates and Sheetz, alleging that the team used player images in a marketing campaign for a uniform patch without proper licensing agreements. The lawsuit demands that the Pirates cease this practice and compensate the players for damages. In response, the Pirates' Senior Vice President of Communications, Brian Warecki, stated that the team was surprised by the complaint as they were engaged in active discussions with the MLBPA. Warecki also mentioned that a verbal agreement has been reached, and the complaint is expected to be withdrawn. The lawsuit highlights the controversy surrounding the use of uniform patches, which some fans have criticized, and the financial terms of the deal, reportedly worth $100,000 per year.