Each year in January, the Pirates Caravan visits several towns and cities throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia to say thanks to all the great Pirates fans for their support during the previous season. In January of 2008, the Winter Caravan visited 21 cities in 12 days while driving over 1,700 miles! In the 21 cities the Caravan participated in 34 events, including six school assemblies with local middle schools.

Appearances on the 2008 Caravan during the two-week trip included: manager John Russell, pitching coach Jeff Andrews, Tom Gorzelanny, Matt Capps, Nate McLouth, Paul Maholm, Steve Pearce, Adam LaRoche, Jack Wilson, Nyjer Morgan, Zach Duke; broadcasters Lanny Frattare, Greg Brown, Steve Blass, Bob Walk and John Wehner, Pirates Chairman Bob Nutting, Pirates President Frank Coonelly and Pirates General Manager Neal Huntington.

During the caravan, fans have the opportunity to receive free autographs from Pirates players, coaches and alumni, play interactive games, buy tickets and learn about the upcoming season.

Thanks to you, the loyal Pirates fans, the Winter Caravan was once again a huge success!

• 2008 Caravan photo galleries: I | II