PITTSBURGH -- The best fans in major league baseball? Ask that question in 30 cities, and you’re liable to get 20-something different answers.

Here’s what the numbers suggest: In the National League, no fans have had a bigger impact on their team than Pirates supporters this season.

At the start of the day, the Pirates had a 20-21 record at home, 13 games better than on the road, the most significant difference in the league. Only the Detroit Tigers (15 1/2 games) have a better such rate in the major leagues right now.

Sure, it's silly to think that fans have that much to say about the outcome. But too many players have told me that there’s something about a large turnout at PNC Park for me believe their record is a mere coincidence.

As Ryan Church told me after the comeback victory on Friday night, “I understand it’s the weekend with fireworks and all, but the people have continued to support us,” Church said. “We’ve played well at home, and they have had a lot to do with it.”

Win or lose, large or small, the fans at PNC Park have been as enthusiastic and knowledgeable as any that I’ve seen this season. Kind of makes you wonder what would it be like if the home team really gave them something to cheer about, doesn’t it?