In Cuban We Trust...

Spotted a few nights ago, enjoying a game at PNC Park was media-mogul/Dallas Maverick's owner/Pittsburgh native Mark Cuban. According to an article in the Post-Gazette, fans were in full swing trying to entice the free-spending Cuban into making a pitch for the cash-strapped Pittsburgh Pirates.

Despite several requests from the local media for interviews, the usually camera-hogging Cuban declined comment. Instead, the NBA owner sat near Pirates current owner Kevin McClatchy, his lips sealed.

While both McClatchy and Cuban deny any formal discussion on the sale of the Pirates, I think it's safe to read between the lines...

• Cuban denies opportunity to be interview. Probably upon the request of McClatchy who wants to keep things underwraps until the sale is more nailed down. Let's face it. When has Cuban EVER denied someone an interview?
• Cuban and his entourage sitting in McClatchy's section. Come on. If you're trying to cover something up, at least put Cuban in another part of the stadium.
• Cuban "says" he would buy the Pirates ONLY if the team were in danger of moving or being sold. When AREN'T the Pirates in danger of that?

Who wouldn't want to see Cuban buy the Buccos? He would instantly put the team back in baseball's "land of the living". Suddenly, ESPN would care a little more about the Bucs, other than when they were playing the Cubs or the Cardinals. PNC Park would attract more fans, more media, and MORE MONEY. As evidence of the turn around he performed with the Mavs, Cuban would help to resurrect a team that hasn't competed for the playoffs in over 10 years. Pittsburgh wouldn't be a revolving door for young talent (i.e. Barry Bonds, Jason Kendall, Brian Giles, and [coming soon] Jason Bay) because they can't afford to keep them. When good free agents become available, Pittsburgh would be a viable contender for their services.

Cuban is South Hills native who relishes the spotlight. Here's hoping he finds a big bright one on the shores of the 3 rivers.