Frank Coonelly: Pirates' Brand Has Never Been Stronger

PITTSBURGH (93-7 The Fan) -- Pirates President Frank Coonelly joined "The Fan Morning Show" at PNC Park on Monday, as the guys broadcasted live from inside the stadium in anticipation of Opening Day.

Coonelly told the guys that there's something special about this Opening Day that sets it apart from the start of other recent seasons.

"The brand has never been stronger," Coonelly said. "As you can see by the new partners that will be here at PNC Park this year, companies want to associate with the Pittsburgh Pirates that may not have wanted to have associate with us five years ago. It's an exciting time."

Coonelly also explained his decision to welcome Barry Bonds back to join fellow former Pirates MVP Dick Groat in presenting Andrew McCutchen with his NL MVP award.

Coonelly said that he didn't want to make an exception to their plan to bring back their former award winners as presenters, and that he did ask McCutchen before he made the decision.

The interview can be heard here:

Listen to Frank Coonelly 3-31

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Barry Bonds