Andrew McCutchen Returns to Pirates

By Nate Miller

Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images

January 13, 2023

Outfielder Andrew McCutchen has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates. The pact marks his return to where his career began. The deal is for one year and is worth $5 million. The agreement between the two sides is pending a physical, according to Jason Mackey. The club has yet to confirm. Now, for the first time in more than five years, Pirates fans will once again have the opportunity to cheer on McCutchen as he rocks the black and gold.

Sources: Andrew McCutchen returning to the Pirates. One-year deal pending physical.

— Jason Mackey (@JMackeyPG) January 13, 2023

Personal Milestones

The 35-year-old outfielder is on the verge of accomplishing several personal milestones. He is currently sitting on 1,948 hits, 287 home runs, 392 doubles, and 983 walks. Over a full season, Andrew McCutchen could very well check all four items on that list.

For the upcoming 2023 season, McCutchen will be in a role that he will definitely need to adjust to. He will see time both at designated hitter and the corner-outfield positions for the Pirates. With the Milwaukee Brewers, McCutchen played a career-low 53 games in the outfield — 31 in left field and 19 in right field.

New Mentorship Role

Another reason that the Pirates retained the services of Andrew McCutchen is his experience. It is a safe bet that he will be leaned upon heavily to act as a mentor to the younger players on the team. This offseason, the Pirates have supplemented their young, burgeoning core with a plethora of veterans. They include Rich Hill, Carlos Santana, Ji-Man Choi, and Austin Hedges. Now, Pittsburgh can add McCutchen, who will be entering his 15th season, to the list. The Bucs’ youth stands to learn a thing or three from the former MVP.

Potential Final Curtain Call for Andrew McCutchen

Where it all began pic.twitter.com/TmHG8yWbg1

— Andrew McCutchen (@TheCUTCH22) January 13, 2023

While Andrew McCutchen’s return to the Pirates may be welcomed news for the fans, it is also bittersweet. His decision to return to Pittsburgh could signal that this upcoming season will be his last. McCutchen will turn 36 years old on Opening Day. His homecoming might be an opportunity to close the loop and finish his career where it started. Regardless of whether this may or may not be the end, this much is certain: Andrew McCutchen is, once again, a Pittsburgh Pirate.