Pirates Owner Bob Nutting has "no plans" to sell the team despite "falling attendance and back-to-back losing seasons," according to Rob Biertempfel of the PITTSBURGH TRIBUNE-REVIEW. Nutting "insisted he is staying put" despite conflicting reports in October linking Steelers investor Thomas Tull to a possible purchase. Nutting said, "No one has approached us (about selling). I haven't heard any rumor. I haven't had any discussion. I'm not aware of any buyer. And I have no interest in selling the team." Nutting previously has indicated he might "eventually pass the franchise down to his three daughters, all of whom are in their 20s." After earning Wild Card postseason trips in '13, '14 and '15, the Pirates have "finished under .500 in each of the past two seasons." Compared to two years ago, local TV ratings are down 45% and attendance at PNC Park is off by 23%. Nutting: "Because 2017 was absolutely a disappointing season, does it mean our organization is at the brink of collapse or we're at a turning point? I'm not sure that's the case. Does it mean we need to be honest, reassess and chart a clear path for 2018, '19, '20 and beyond? Absolutely. That's a process that's still developing" (TRIBLIVE.com, 12/19).
