Do you consider the Pirates a rival?

TL;DR

The Philadelphia Phillies face the Pittsburgh Pirates tonight, sparking debate over whether the two teams still have a rivalry. Once fierce, the rivalry has cooled but remains a topic of discussion among fans.

Key points

Phillies play Pirates tonight at PNC Park
Rivalry once fierce, now less intense
Debate on whether rivalry still exists

Mentioned in this story

PNC Park

Philadelphia PhilliesPittsburgh Pirates

Mar 6, 2026; Bradenton, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Rafael Marchan (13) slides as Pittsburgh Pirates short stop Alika Williams (37) waits for the ball in the fourth inning during spring training at LECOM Park. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images | Jonathan Dyer-Imagn Images Rivalry Weekend begins tonight. Some of the matchups are obvious: you needn’t ask why the Cubs and White Sox have beef with each other (not Italian beef. Disliking each other, they would not likely share a meal of that delicious Chicago specialty). Some are not: Detroit and Toronto may be close to each other, but there’s no real rivalry between the Tigers and Blue Jays. And some are somewhere in between. The Phillies will play the Pirates at PNC Park tonight, in a matchup that was once a ferocious rivalry, but now has become a less vicious affair. But rivalry never really dies. Or does it? That’s for you to decide and debate. Today’s question is: **do you consider the Pirates a rival**?

Q&A

What is the history of the rivalry between the Phillies and Pirates?

The rivalry between the Philadelphia Phillies and Pittsburgh Pirates was once intense, characterized by competitive matchups, but has diminished over the years.

Why is the Phillies vs. Pirates matchup significant?

The matchup is significant as it revives discussions about the historical rivalry and its current relevance in Major League Baseball.

When did the Phillies and Pirates last have a fierce rivalry?

The Phillies and Pirates had a fierce rivalry primarily during the late 20th century, which has since lessened in intensity.

Do you consider the Pirates a rival?

TL;DR

Key points

Q&A

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