By Jordan Long
The Pittsburgh Pirates ended this past season at 76-68, missing the postseason for the 8th straight season. They look to rebound in 2024. They have re-signed a fan favorite, Andrew McCutchen.
Last season, McCutchen was mostly the designated hitter for Pittsburgh. They knew his best days in the outfield were done and he wasn’t going to be an everyday outfielder. He did end up playing in 8 games at right field and didn’t record an error.
McCutchen is more known for his offense. He had 390 plate appearances with a batting average of .256. He smacked 12 home runs and drove in 43 RBIs. McCutchen’s season was cut short. In the Pirates’ 4-2 win over the Milwaukee Brewers on September 4th, he was rounding 2nd base when he suffered a slight tear of his left Achilles tendon which ended his season.
The Pirates’ last game of the year was on October 1st. When the final out was recorded, McCutchen was a free agent. McCutchen knew he wanted to end his career where it started, Pittsburgh. The Pirates agreed to a 1-year $5 million contract.
McCutchen is 37 years old which is getting up there for a baseball player. He will not be an everyday outfielder. McCutchen proved that last year. He will most likely be the designated hitter for the team. His offense is going to help this team. McCutchen may not be the home run hitter he once was but still can be productive.
This is a great move for the Pirates. They know they need veteran leadership and McCutchen brings that to the clubhouse. McCutchen may end his baseball career at the end of 2024. He doesn’t have a lot of baseball left in him. Hopefully, he can help Pittsburgh win games even if they fall short of the playoffs in 2024.
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