The Pittsburgh Pirates fired 80-year-old Art McKennan,...

The Pittsburgh Pirates fired 80-year-old Art McKennan, the team’s public address announcer since 1948, because they are looking for somebody with a more enthusiastic voice as they change to a format that will tie together the scoreboard, their parrot mascot and the announcer.

McKennan began operating the scoreboard in 1942. He became the announcer six years later. “I don’t think I should make any fuss,” McKennan said. “My announcing has always been low key. These days the announcers are upbeat and enthusiastic. They want someone who is more enthusiastic.”