Pirates Report 1990 Loss of $7.03 Million

Even though the Pittsburgh Pirates won the National League East in 1990 and set a club attendance record, the team had an operating loss of $7.03 million.

The Pirates, said today that part of the 1990 loss was due to the $280-million collusion settlement with the players association.

“Our 1990 financial results are indicative of the serious and sobering dilemma currently existing in major league baseball,” club President Carl Barger said.

The Pirates said their share of the grievance damages was $10,769,231, of which $2,716,000 was reported in 1989.

The club also cited a 48% increase in major-league salaries.