Pittsburgh Pirates Retains Highmark Blue as Exclusive Health Insurance Provider

March 20, 2014

Major League Baseball’s (MLB) Pittsburgh Pirates have renewed their partnership with Pittsburgh-based Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, to be the “Exclusive Health Insurance Provider” of the team.

The multi-year contract extension ensures a continued relationship with the health insurance provider that has been a major partner of the team for more than a decade.

As part of the agreement, Highmark will have a significant visible presence at PNC Park during games and will receive fixed and camera-friendly signage spots to promote its brand.

“Highmark is a wonderful supporter of Pirates baseball and has been through the years,” Pirates President Frank Coonelly said. “Like the Pirates, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield is committed to the people and traditions that make Pittsburgh unique and special. We are honored to be a part of Highmark’s longstanding commitment to the Pittsburgh community.”

The health insurance provider also will serve as the presenting sponsor of many family-friendly promotional events throughout the season as the agreement focuses on health and wellness initiatives geared toward children and families.

“Pirates baseball remains a cornerstone of our community. It is one of those long standing traditions that draw the Pittsburgh community together,” said Deborah Rice-Johnson, president of Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield. “We are proud of our partnership with the Pirates because we both share a legacy of commitment to the Pittsburgh region.”

New for 2014, Highmark is now the presenting partner of two unique areas of PNC Park, including the Right Field Bleachers and the Kids Play Land area. Throughout the 2014 season, each time the Pirates hit a home run into the Right Field Bleachers, Highmark will make a $100 donation to a local non-profit organization.

Highmark will also serve as the presenting partner of the kids’ area, located inside the Right Field Gate to PNC Park, which features a miniature PNC Park configuration as well as a multi-purpose play set.