You missed the most important part of the history of the Pirates decline. Pirate fans all remember when Sid slid. He was my favorite, then we let him go and he has permanently cursed the Pirates ever since.

I'm going to go sulk now, thanks a lot you mean mean slate author. :'(

I read that the Pirates hired Bream as a coach. Not sure that will bring karma back. He was definitely out.

(I'd put keeping Van Slyke over Bonds as the biggest part of the decline, but the Bream thing hurt too...)