PIRATES OUSTING OUTBACK FROM OUTFIELD OF PNC PARK: Outback is out for the Pirates, as the Aussie-themed eatery at PNC Park has closed its doors:

The PITTSBURGH POST GAZETTE reports the restaurant space will be undergoing renovations in time for new dining digs to be ready by next season’s Opening Day.Ballpark visitors hoping to dine at Outback had to purchase a specific ticket package that included food allowances in order to enter the restaurant. Pirates officials plan for the new place to be open to all ticket-holders.

Outback’s final day last Friday was a surprise to the restaurant’s workers, who said they weren’t told about the possible closing. In fact, some employees were planning a Christmas party for this Friday. Guess it’s “Bah, Humbug!” for them.The steakhouse isn’t the only nearby eating establishment to close its doors. The Hi-Tops Sports Bar located across the street shut down in October. A consultant blamed the bar’s poor sales on the Pirates’ “chronic losing.”

Will a new food factory on the foul line bring Pittburgh fans back to the park? It’s certainly an easier attempt than, say, fielding a winning team.