Originally published on DICK'S Sporting Goods Sideline Report

Fans and collectors gathered at DICK’S House of Sport (HOS) in Pittsburgh on Friday, May 9 to catch a glimpse of sports history. The store unveiled the one-of-one Paul Skenes MLB Debut Patch card.

HOS Pittsburgh distributed 500 wristbands to those wishing to see the card up close. Travis Rogan of Beaver, Pennsylvania, was the very first in line.

“I’m blown away by the level of care that went into this display,” Rogan said. "Getting to see the card itself is wild!”

500 wristbands were also distributed to fans on Saturday, May 10 and Sunday, May 11.

Executive Director, HOS Pittsburgh Javier Perez, said this is all much more than just a display.

“It represents DICK’S’ commitment to offering unforgettable experiences,” said Perez. “This card creates a powerful community touchpoint for Pittsburgh fans and collectors alike.”

DICK’S purchased 2024’s most coveted baseball trading card after winning an auction conducted by Fanatics Collect Premier Auction in March. It features a piece of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher’s MLB debut jersey and his autograph.

“We’re thrilled to bring this special card home,” said DICK’S Executive Chairman Ed Stack. “It enables us to celebrate Skenes’ incredible talent while giving our athletes (customers) a unique opportunity to experience a piece of baseball history up close.”

The Skenes card will live in a new space built just for it on the bottom floor of HOS Pittsburgh. The card is also a kickoff for a new collectors space, Collectors Clubhouse, which features trading cards and memorabilia to inspire the next generation of athletes and collectors. The Collectors Clubhouse is launching in Pittsburgh and four other HOS stores.

“It opens the doors for events, conversations and connections that build community and deepen our role as a destination, not just a store,” said Perez.

You can read more about DICK’S acquisition of the Skenes card here.

Written by Hilary Totin

Photos by Rebecca Hoolahan