In a notable move for the upcoming baseball season, Andrew McCutchen has signed a $5 million, one-year deal to remain with the Pittsburgh Pirates, confident in his ability to impact the team’s push toward postseason contention.
The five-time All-Star, at 38, remains determined to make a difference on the field. McCutchen expressed, “I think the biggest thing for me is knowing I can still compete and can still be able to produce. I still feel like there’s a way that I can be better and I know that it’s still in there.” Acknowledging the inevitable end of his career, McCutchen is eager to yet again contribute significantly in his 17th major league season, with 12 of those being spent in Pittsburgh, his adopted hometown.
General manager Ben Cherington has been clear about wanting to retain McCutchen, who transitioned from outfielder to designated hitter, and completed last season with 20 home runs and 53 RBIs over 120 games. The sentiment was echoed by Pirates chairman Bob Nutting, who cited McCutchen’s deep commitment to supporting the team both on and off the field. Nutting stated, “It was important for me and for everyone within our organization that Andrew remain in a Pirates uniform. It is where he belongs.”
McCutchen’s aim to finish his career with the team that drafted him in 2005 remains unchanged. His substantial career achievements, including 2,127 hits and 319 home runs, have positioned him within the top ten of most offensive categories for the Pirates, a franchise with a storied 137-year history. He continues to prepare for the challenges of a new season while contending with the practical burdens of his professional life, such as seasonal living arrangements for his family.
Despite a season-ending Achilles injury and previous hamstring issues, McCutchen achieved the milestone of 20 home runs for the 10th time. He has spent the offseason slimming down to 190 pounds to ease pressure on his legs and maintain his on-field presence. McCutchen commented, “I do think that’s going to help me a lot and help my legs out a lot. And learning when I need to turn it off and turn it on. If I can do that I do think it can keep me on the field and I can be in the lineup for 120-plus games, because I do feel like I can produce.”
Despite the Pittsburgh Pirates’ consecutive 76-86 seasons, McCutchen remains optimistic about their prospects. While they have not made significant acquisitions to bolster a lineup that lagged in NL offensive metrics, the addition of first baseman Spencer Horwitz is noteworthy. Reflecting on past successes, McCutchen remarked, “There are things you can’t look on paper and see it. You just go out there and do it. We got to do those small things, a lot of small things. It’s what I’m here for.”
Andrew McCutchen’s commitment to the Pittsburgh Pirates underscores both his enduring passion for the game and his unwavering belief in the team’s potential. As he embarks on another season, McCutchen’s presence offers experience and hope for a franchise eager to restore its former glory.
Source: Local10
