Jack Wilson relives father-son moment, throwing first pitch to Jacob at Pittsburgh Pirates vs Athletics game, 19 years later

A heartwarming moment unfolded on Friday, at PNC Park, transcending beyond the traditional baseball game. The former MLB star, Jack Wilson returned to the field that he once called his home. 19 years later, Wilson threw the first pitch to his son Jacob, who now is a professional baseball player too.

This moment was far more than nostalgia.

It was a perfect family moment, that created beautiful, decades-old memory.

Jack Wilson throws the first pitch to son Jacob at Pittsburgh Pirates vs Athletics Game

Nineteen years ago, in 2005, the scene that was played out on the field was relieved in 2025 at the Pittsburgh Pirates vs Athletics game. This time, the roles were reversed and the former Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop, Jack Wilson, stood on the mount. As the crowd watched, he delivered the ceremonial first pitch to his son Jacob.

The event clearly mirrored the day that happened nearly 2 decades ago, when the 4-year-old Jacob wearing the oversized Pirates Jersey threw the first pitch to his father. The entire event unfolded at the same ballpark. Such poignant exchanges offered a full-circle powerful moment for Wilson family and their fans alike.

Celebrating legacy beyond game

The connection between the father and son run deep through the Pittsburgh infield. Jack Wilson was one of the fan-favorite players and remained the defensive and reliable player for the Pittsburgh Pirates, for 9 seasons.

His best years came in 2004, while his time with the team offered the backdrop for Jacob’s passion for the sport, leading him to a career path and back to the meaningful ballpark.Jacob now is carving his own impressive path. He entered the game with his stellar .320 batting average and the honor of being 1st fan-elected rookie shortstop for the starting All-Star Game. The duo’s shared position as well their success, creates a unique bond, making them a remarkable father-son duo of baseball.For Jacob, Pittsburgh is now like a second hometown, a place where he had his earliest baseball memories, while watching his day play. Reportedly, the clubhouse staff heightened his entire experience, decorating the locker with the childhood pictures. It was a gesture which was deeply appreciated.