PITTSBURGH -- The Jolly Roger has walked the plank in Pittsburgh.

The Pirates announced Wednesday that the franchise will make the gold "P" the team's primary logo this season, replacing the beloved eye-patch wearing sailor who has been the club's main symbol for nearly 80 years.

The team will still have the Jolly Roger on the sleeves of some of its uniforms for the time being. Some variation of the Jolly Roger has been a part of the Pirates' identity since 1936, although the classic "P" dates back more than a century.

The club will continue to raise a black-and-white pirate flag in center field after home victories.

The Pirates have seen a huge increase in merchandise sales recently thanks to their improved play. Pittsburgh made the playoffs for the first time in 21 years in 2013.