The Pittsburgh Pirates have long been known for a certain lack of humor within their organization. It seems that few within the team, from the players to the front office and business side, exude exceptional happiness. However, one notable exception is Joe Klimchak, the in-game entertainment host at PNC Park. He seemingly never has a bad day, and it's clear that whatever the Pirates pay him, it's not nearly enough.

Owner's Impact on Team Atmosphere

The tone within the Pirates organization is often set from the top. Owner Bob Nutting is not known for his people skills, and those who work for the team often fear running afoul of him. This has created a somewhat somber atmosphere within the franchise.

Despite this, the Pirates have recently come up with an intriguing idea. Over the weekend, they hatched a plan involving Paul Skenes and a baseball card that could be worth a significant amount of money. The card features a patch from Skenes's major league debut jersey, which was removed at the end of his game on May 11 and inserted into a one-of-a-kind card. Skenes himself then autographed the card.

This card is part of the 2024 Topps Chrome Update set, which was launched last week and is considered one of the most anticipated baseball card releases in a decade. The rookie and second-year players with MLB debut patch cards have added to the excitement.

Value of Skenes' Card

For reference, the most valuable card in the 2023 Topps Chrome Update set was that of New York Yankees shortstop Anthony Volpe and his MLB debut patch, which was auctioned for $150,000. Skenes' card is even more valuable after his outstanding rookie season.

During his rookie season, Skenes started for the National League in the All-Star Game. He had an impressive 11-3 record with a 1.96 ERA in 23 starts and struck out 170 batters in 133 innings. He is a finalist for both the NL Cy Young and Rookie of the Year awards.

There is talk within the collecting industry that Skenes' card could fetch a staggering $1 million. The Pirates are willing to trade with the person who finds this card in one of the Topps packs, and their offer is very enticing.

Trading Package Details

The biggest enticement in the Pirates' offer is a pair of season tickets behind home plate at PNC Park for the next 30 seasons. This is a significant perk for any baseball fan.

In addition to the season tickets, the Pirates are also offering the use of their home field for a softball game featuring up to 30 people. Fans will also get a meet and greet with Skenes, two autographed Skenes jerseys, the chance to work out with the Pirates before a game, and a behind-the-scenes tour of the team's operations in both Pittsburgh and their spring training facilities in Bradenton.

Livvy Dunne, Skenes' girlfriend and NCAA champion gymnast, has added to the package by offering the fan the opportunity to sit with her in a private box at PNC Park during a game. This makes the offer even more appealing.

It's fascinating to think about what the person who ends up with the card will do. The Pirates' offer is very enticing to any baseball fan, even considering the franchise's long drought without a division title (since 1992) or a postseason series (since 1979). There is some truly once-in-a-lifetime stuff here.

Personally, I might keep the card and sell it to the highest bidder. After all, I'm 60 years old and have spent the past 37 years as a baseball writer, seeing the game from an inside perspective. However, the decision for the fan who finds the card will be a difficult one. The Pirates have certainly added a fun twist to the whole idea.