Baseball Creates Friendships

During my college years, I was urged to pursue an internship with the Pittsburgh Pirates, but little did I know the amount of persistence it would take. After several months of reaching out, the team's photographer, Dave Arrigo, finally responded. That moment marked the beginning of not only a valuable internship but a friendship that has lasted over 15 years.

I spent a year as a photography intern with the Pirates, doing freelance work for them afterward, and even taking a Sports Photography class through their department—something my college didn’t offer at the time. Although I wasn’t a sports fan growing up, this opportunity became invaluable. Dave pushed me beyond my limits and taught me not only the technical aspects of photography but also how to handle difficult situations and find joy in the process.

Our friendship and mentorship continued to this day. Recently, I had the opportunity to assist Dave at Pirate City during their Fantasy Camp in Bradenton, FL. Seeing him brought back a sense of "home" and familiar memories of my time in Pittsburgh. Fantasy Camp itself was an incredible experience. It offers participants a chance to fulfill their childhood dreams, playing alongside Pirate alumni on the same fields as Major League players. Hearing stories from participants—many of whom have been attending for over 15 years—reminded me of the joy and connection baseball fosters across generations.

Being back with familiar faces and watching the magic of Fantasy Camp unfold truly felt like stepping back in time, as if 18 years had flown by in an instant. It’s moments like these that remind me of the lifelong connections and experiences I gained during my time with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

While at Fantasy Camp, I had the unique opportunity to chat with former Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher John "The Candy Man" Candelaria, who played for the team from 1975 to 1985 and again in 1993. John, known for his impressive 19-year career, introduced himself, and we began to exchange stories about the game.

I asked him, "What kept you playing for 19 years?"

With a laugh and a shrug, he replied, "They kept paying me."

Of course, the pay scale in baseball has changed drastically over the years. John shared that when he started, players made about $16,000 a year, a stark contrast to the $700,000 starting salaries in today's game.

Though the money has changed, the one thing that hasn't is the enduring passion for baseball, both for the players and the fans. It's that shared love for the game that has created long-lasting friendships between photographers, players, and the community. Baseball gave me one of the best mentors and friendships in my life, and for that, I will always be grateful.

Of course, Dave and I had to take a selfie before I left Pirate City.

After the players of Fantasy Camp got all of their photos with Pittsburgh Pirate Alumni, I was given the opportunity to sit for this photo, surrounded by so many baseball greats.