Getty Image / Justin K. Aller
Let’s be honest, being a fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates doesn’t bring much joy. They’re known for being one of the least expensive teams in Major League Baseball and haven’t made it to the NLCS since 1992.
However, on Tuesday, the team’s supporters received some exciting news. The Pittsburgh Pirates have reached an agreement with their legendary player, Andrew McCutchen, for him to return to the team.
Sources have confirmed that the Pirates are bringing back Andrew McCutchen. The deal is for one year and worth $5 million. More details to follow.
— Jason Mackey (@JMackeyPG) December 19, 2023
McCutchen, who was originally drafted by the Pirates in the first round in 2005, is considered one of the team’s best players to have come up through their own system since Barry Bonds. In 2013, he even won the NL MVP award as the Pirates had a successful season with 94 wins, although they were eventually eliminated in the NLDS by the St. Louis Cardinals, losing 3-2. During that season, McCutchen had an impressive .317/.404/.517 batting line with 21 home runs, 84 RBI, 97 runs scored, and 27 stolen bases. He also played exceptional defense in centerfield. From 2011 to 2015, he was selected to the All-Star team for five consecutive years.
However, after spending nine seasons in Pittsburgh, McCutchen’s time with the team came to an end after the 2017 season when he was traded to the Giants. Since then, he has also played for the Yankees, Phillies, and Brewers, with varying degrees of success. He still remains an above-average offensive player with excellent on-base skills.
For fans of a team like the Pittsburgh Pirates, who don’t have the financial resources to consistently compete for championships, it’s the small victories that matter the most. The team does have some promising talent under their control, including players like Ke’Bryan Hayes, Henry Davis, Bryan Reynolds, Mitch Keller, and Oneil Cruz. Additionally, they have a strong group of prospects in their minor league system, led by Paul Skenes, who was the first overall pick in 2023. However, it’s unlikely that they will be contenders this year. Having the opportunity to watch Andrew McCutchen play what could potentially be his final season at one of the best ballparks in the league, PNC Park, will undoubtedly bring some excitement to Pirates fans and encourage them to show their support.
According to the Source brobible.com