Greg Brown – Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Fame Announcer Celebrates 30 Years Behind the Mic
When baseball fans tune into Pittsburgh Pirates games, they hear Greg Brown bringing the action to life. The enthusiastic broadcaster has been the voice of the Pirates for over three decades, making him one of the longest-tenured announcers in Major League Baseball. Only Lanny Frattare (33 years) has called more games as a Pirates broadcaster than Brown, who is currently in his 32nd year behind the microphone.
Brown’s journey with the Pirates organization began back in 1979, the last year the team won a World Series championship. He was then a student at Point Park University, getting his first taste of professional baseball. His distinctive home run calls and genuine passion for Pirates baseball have made him a beloved figure among generations of fans who’ve followed the team through rebuilding years and playoff pushes alike.
Recently, Brown has expressed optimism about the Pirates’ future, particularly highlighting the team’s pitching as a reason for hope. While the Pirates have struggled in recent seasons, Brown’s enthusiasm for the team never wavers, demonstrating why he’s considered among the good guys in MLB broadcasting circles.
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Greg Brown’s Early Life and Education
Greg Brown’s path to becoming the voice of the Pittsburgh Pirates began in central Pennsylvania, where his early love for sports and education at Point Park College set the foundation for his broadcasting career.
Hometown and Early Years
Greg Brown grew up in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, approximately three hours east of Pittsburgh. Despite his current association with baseball, football was actually Brown’s first love. His connection to Pittsburgh began early in life through his father, who frequently traveled to the Steel City on business.
These trips helped foster Brown’s appreciation for Pittsburgh sports. Though he would eventually become synonymous with Pirates baseball, his childhood in central Pennsylvania shaped his understanding of sports culture in the region.
Brown’s early years were marked by his developing passion for broadcasting and sports commentary, skills that would later define his professional life.
Education at Point Park College
Brown’s formal education took place at Point Park College (now Point Park University) in Pittsburgh, where he studied while simultaneously beginning his professional journey. In 1979, while still a student, Brown secured an internship with the Pirates’ promotions department.
This internship proved pivotal, as it included an unusual responsibility: serving as the backup for the Pirates Parrot mascot. This humble beginning would later be remembered as the first step in Brown’s long association with the Pirates organization.
His education at Point Park provided him with broadcasting fundamentals while his practical experience with the Pirates gave him firsthand knowledge of baseball operations. After completing his education, Brown’s career path would take him through Youngstown, Ohio before eventually returning to Pittsburgh.
Rise in Broadcasting
Greg Brown’s journey to becoming the voice of the Pittsburgh Pirates involved several stepping stones across different broadcast mediums and sports. His distinctive voice and passionate delivery became hallmarks of his announcing style long before he settled into baseball.
Start of a Broadcasting Career
Brown’s broadcasting career began at WFMJ-TV in Youngstown, Ohio in the late 1970s. The small market station provided the perfect training ground for the aspiring broadcaster to develop his craft. Working at WFMJ-TV allowed Brown to handle various responsibilities, from reporting to anchoring to early play-by-play work.
His naturally enthusiastic delivery caught the attention of local sports directors. During this formative period, Brown developed the foundation of his broadcasting style—clear diction, thorough preparation, and genuine excitement that never overshadowed the action.
The Youngstown market, while not massive, served as an ideal launching pad for Brown’s career. He built connections throughout the Ohio sports landscape that would later prove valuable.
Expanding Horizons: Multi-Sport Announcing
Brown’s versatility became evident as he expanded beyond local TV into radio and various sports. He demonstrated remarkable adaptability, handling play-by-play duties for football, basketball, and hockey with equal proficiency.
His career reached a significant milestone when he joined the Buffalo Bills radio team. Brown’s football broadcasting peaked with his coverage of the Bills’ remarkable run of four consecutive Super Bowl appearances in the early 1990s.
| Sport | Organization | Years | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Football | Buffalo Bills | 1990-1993 | Radio Announcer |
| Basketball | Various | 1980s | Play-by-Play |
| Hockey | Minor League | 1980s | Play-by-Play |
Brown’s multi-sport experience enriched his broadcasting toolkit. He developed a knack for maintaining energy during slow moments and creating memorable calls during big plays—skills that would serve him well in baseball.
Transition to Baseball
Baseball ultimately became Brown’s broadcasting home. His entry into America’s pastime came through Minor League Baseball, specifically with the Buffalo Bisons. This position allowed him to refine his baseball vocabulary and develop the stamina required for the sport’s lengthy schedule.
The minor league experience proved invaluable. Brown called countless games featuring future MLB stars while mastering baseball’s unique rhythm—the ability to engage listeners through extended periods of strategic gameplay punctuated by moments of intense action.
His work in Buffalo caught the attention of the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. Brown’s ability to connect with fans through vivid descriptions and genuine enthusiasm for the game made him an attractive candidate for a major league position.
The transition from multi-sport announcer to baseball specialist played to Brown’s strengths. His experience across different sports gave him a diverse repertoire of descriptive language that helped make Pirates broadcasts distinctive and engaging.
Greg Brown and the Pittsburgh Pirates
Greg Brown has become synonymous with Pittsburgh Pirates baseball, serving as the team’s play-by-play announcer for over three decades. His distinctive voice and passionate calls have made him a beloved figure among generations of Pirates fans through championship runs and rebuilding years alike.
Joining the Pirates Organization
Greg Brown’s journey with the Pirates began in 1979—coincidentally the last time the franchise won a World Series championship. As a student at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, Brown got his start with the organization during this championship season, laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong connection to the team.
The young broadcaster worked his way through various roles in the organization before landing in the broadcast booth. His early years gave him a deep understanding of the Pirates’ rich history and culture as the team transitioned from Three Rivers Stadium to the beautiful PNC Park.
Brown’s early work alongside Pirates broadcasters helped him develop his distinctive style while learning the intricacies of baseball broadcasting.
Becoming the Voice of the Pirates
Brown officially joined the Pirates broadcast team in 1994 and has since become one of the most enduring voices in franchise history. With 32 years of service calling Pirates games on radio and television for SportsNet Pittsburgh, Brown stands second only to Lanny Frattare (33 years) for longevity among Pirates broadcasters.
His partnership with former Pirates pitcher Bob Walk created one of baseball’s most entertaining broadcast duos. Their chemistry and knowledge of the game have helped fans through both exciting playoff runs and challenging rebuilding seasons.
Brown’s distinctive voice and genuine enthusiasm for Pirates baseball have made him the soundtrack of summer for multiple generations of Pittsburgh baseball fans.
| Broadcaster | Years with Pirates |
|---|---|
| Lanny Frattare | 33 |
| Greg Brown | 32 |
| Bob Prince | 28 |
Memorable Calls and Moments
Brown’s career features numerous iconic calls that Pirates fans can recite from memory. His signature phrase “Raise the Jolly Roger!” after Pirates victories has become a rallying cry for the fanbase.
Among his most memorable calls was Russell Martin’s home run off Johnny Cueto in the 2013 NL Wild Card game. As the PNC Park crowd chanted “CUE-TO,” Martin launched a home run that Brown called with perfect emotion, capturing one of the most electric moments in recent Pirates history.
Brown’s call of Andrew McCutchen’s walkoff home run against the Cardinals in 2015 similarly showcased his ability to match the energy of pivotal moments. When former Pirates closer Matt Capps returned to Pittsburgh with Washington, Brown’s call demonstrated his deep knowledge of team history.
Despite challenging seasons recently, Brown remains optimistic about the Pirates’ future, sharing his perspective with fans through broadcasts and his social media presence as @gbrowniepoints.
Influence and Legacy
Greg Brown’s impact on Pittsburgh Pirates broadcasting extends far beyond the booth. His distinctive voice and passion for the game have made him an integral part of the Pirates’ identity for more than three decades.
Brown’s Signature Calls
Few broadcasters become as synonymous with a team as Greg Brown has with the Pirates. His legendary call of “Clear the deck, cannonball coming!” for home runs has become part of Pittsburgh baseball folklore. The phrase ignites instant recognition among fans across generations.
When significant moments unfold at PNC Park, Brown’s enthusiastic “Raise the Jolly Roger!” after victories connects modern fans to the team’s rich history. These signature phrases aren’t merely catchphrases—they’ve become cultural touchstones.
What makes Brown special is his ability to convey genuine excitement without seeming manufactured. His calls during the Pirates’ playoff runs in 2013-2015 particularly stand out, capturing the emotional release of a fanbase that had endured two decades of losing seasons.
Mentorship and Team Relations
Brown’s influence extends beyond the microphone. As a veteran broadcaster now in his 32nd year with the organization, he’s mentored numerous colleagues, including former Pirate John Wehner, who joined the broadcast team.
His relationships with players, managers and front office personnel have provided listeners with unique insights. Brown’s institutional knowledge serves as a bridge between the Pirates’ storied past and present.
Brown’s Broadcast Partners (Selected)
| Partner | Years Together | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| John Wehner | 2004-Present | Former Pirate player |
| Bob Walk | 1994-Present | Former Pirate pitcher |
| Steve Blass | 1986-2019 | Pirates Hall of Famer |
Brown’s ability to bring out the best in his broadcast partners has created memorable pairings that balance analysis, storytelling and game action.
Public and Peer Recognition
Brown has earned widespread respect across MLB broadcasting circles. His role as an ambassador for both the Pirates and baseball itself highlights his professional standing.
During the Pirates’ recent resurgence, Brown’s calls gained additional national attention. While he hasn’t yet received the Ford C. Frick Award for broadcasting excellence, many consider him worthy of joining Hall of Famers like Bob Prince in receiving baseball’s highest broadcasting honor.
Brown’s accessibility to fans through social media and community events has enhanced his connection with the Pittsburgh community. He frequently references Willie Stargell, Roberto Clemente and other Pirates legends, maintaining the connection between eras.
Behind-the-Scenes Contributions
Greg Brown’s impact on the Pittsburgh Pirates extends far beyond his iconic play-by-play commentary. His versatility and deep passion for the organization have made him a valuable contributor in multiple capacities throughout his three-decade tenure with the club.
Public Address Announcer Duties
Brown’s voice became familiar to fans at PNC Park when he served as the Public Address announcer during Pirates home games. This role required him to announce lineups, player introductions, and in-game information with clarity and enthusiasm.
His distinctive voice echoed through the ballpark, setting the tone for the fan experience. Brown approached this role with the same professionalism he brings to his broadcasting duties, creating memorable moments for attendees.
The position allowed him to connect directly with fans in the stadium, rather than solely through radio and television broadcasts. This face-to-face interaction helped Brown develop a deeper understanding of the fan perspective, which later informed his broadcasting style.
Roles in Sales and Public Relations
Before becoming the voice of the Pirates, Brown worked in the organization’s sales and public relations departments. He joined the team in a marketing capacity, helping to promote the Pirates brand throughout the Pittsburgh region.
His experience selling ticket packages and promoting team events gave him invaluable perspective on the business side of baseball operations. This background made Brown uniquely qualified to discuss front office decisions during broadcasts with informed analysis.
In public relations, Brown helped shape the Pirates’ messaging and community outreach. He developed relationships with local media outlets that would later prove beneficial in his broadcasting career.
Brown’s understanding of the PR challenges facing small-market teams has informed his commentary, particularly when discussing General Manager Ben Cherington’s strategic decisions within budget constraints.
Pirates Front Office Involvement
Brown’s longevity with the organization has earned him a respected voice within the Pirates front office. His institutional knowledge provides historical context for current leadership decisions.
He maintains professional relationships with key decision-makers, including General Manager Ben Cherington, giving him insight into the organization’s philosophy and direction. This connection allows Brown to offer listeners nuanced analysis of front office moves.
During his tenure, Brown has witnessed multiple ownership changes and front office restructurings. His perspective spans the Leyland era, the McClatchy years, and the current ownership under Bob Nutting.
Brown serves as an unofficial ambassador for the organization, representing the Pirates at community events and charitable functions. His deep knowledge of the team’s history and operations makes him a valuable resource for new front office personnel joining the organization.
Critique and Controversy
Greg Brown, the longtime voice of the Pittsburgh Pirates, has faced his share of criticism during his broadcasting career. Some viewers consider him a “homer,” or someone who shows excessive bias toward the Pirates. This critique seems puzzling to some fans who appreciate his enthusiasm for the team.
Brown made headlines when he defended his comments and criticized Tony La Russa after a dispute with the former manager. This incident highlighted Brown’s willingness to stand his ground when he believes he’s right.
More recently, Brown found himself in a difficult position during fan protests against Pirates owner Bob Nutting. When fans began chanting “Sell the team,” Brown asked them to stop and “be respectful,” which some fans viewed as defending ownership over their frustrations.
Brown hasn’t shied away from critiquing the game itself. He joined the growing chorus of baseball insiders calling for improvements to strike zone enforcement, demonstrating his commitment to baseball’s integrity.
Despite fan frustrations with Pirates management under Bob Nutting and GM Ben Cherington, Brown has maintained optimism about the team’s future, particularly regarding their pitching prospects for the 2025 season.
Fan Interaction and the Game Day Experience
Greg Brown’s impact on Pirates baseball extends far beyond the broadcast booth. His voice and personality have become integral to how fans experience games at PNC Park and connect with the team across multiple platforms.
Enhancing the Atmosphere at PNC Park
Brown’s enthusiastic calls echo throughout PNC Park during games, with his signature phrases like “Raise the Jolly Roger!” playing after victories. These calls have become part of the fabric of Pirates baseball, creating memorable moments for fans.
The veteran broadcaster works closely with in-stadium entertainment staff to create a cohesive experience. His pre-recorded introductions and announcements help build anticipation before first pitch.
Brown has also developed a special relationship with the Pirate Parrot, occasionally participating in on-field promotions between innings. These interactions showcase his willingness to be part of the entertainment experience.
During the seventh-inning stretch, Brown’s voice leads fans through traditional baseball songs, further cementing his role as the soundtrack of Pirates baseball.
Connecting with Pirates Fans
Brown’s accessibility to fans has made him a beloved figure in Pittsburgh. He regularly hosts pre-game meet-and-greets, signing autographs and chatting with supporters of all ages.
Social media has allowed Brown to extend his connection with fans. His Twitter account provides behind-the-scenes insights and responds directly to fan questions about the team and broadcasts.
Brown bleeds Pirates’ black and gold and has become the face and voice of Pittsburgh baseball. His consistent presence has made him the one constant that fans associate with the team’s identity.
During road trips, Brown hosts “Bucs Breakfasts” where traveling fans can meet him in casual settings. These events typically draw 30-50 dedicated supporters who appreciate his willingness to share stories about the team’s history and current players.
Brown’s genuine love for the Pirates and baseball shines through in every interaction, creating authentic connections with multiple generations of fans.
Pittsburgh’s Broadcasting Landscape
Pittsburgh’s sports broadcasting scene has been shaped by legendary voices and iconic stations that bring Pirates games into homes across Western Pennsylvania. The media landscape features both television networks and radio stations that have become part of the city’s rich baseball tradition.
KDKA-TV and Sportsnet Pittsburgh
Pirates baseball reaches fans through several broadcasting platforms in the Steel City. KDKA-TV, one of America’s oldest stations, has maintained a strong connection to Pirates baseball for decades. The station carries select games and provides comprehensive coverage of the team throughout the season.
Sportsnet Pittsburgh (formerly AT&T SportsNet) serves as the television home for most Pirates games. These broadcasts often feature Greg Brown working alongside other commentators, creating a familiar atmosphere for Pittsburgh baseball fans.
The Pirates’ broadcasting contracts ensure widespread coverage across the region. Television rights have become increasingly valuable, with regional sports networks paying premium prices for MLB content.
| Network | Coverage Type | Notable Personalities |
|---|---|---|
| KDKA-TV | Select games, news | Bob Pompeani |
| Sportsnet Pittsburgh | Primary game broadcasts | Greg Brown (select games) |
Pittsburgh’s Sports Broadcasting Icons
Pittsburgh sports broadcasting boasts several legendary figures who have defined how fans experience Pirates baseball. Bob Pompeani, KDKA’s veteran sportscaster, has been a trusted voice in Pittsburgh sports for over 30 years. He covered Pirates news throughout his distinguished career.
In baseball broadcasting specifically, Jim Rooker provided colorful commentary for Pirates games from 1981 through 1993. His candid style and infamous “walk home” promise after a blown lead became part of Pirates lore.
Brown, now in his 32nd year with the team, ranks second only to Lanny Frattare (33 years) for most games called in Pirates history. His enthusiastic calls and signature home run phrases have endeared him to generations of fans.
These broadcasters form a bridge between eras of Pirates baseball, connecting today’s fans with the rich heritage of Pittsburgh’s baseball tradition.
