Pittsburgh Pirates: Making the Case for an Andrew McCutchen Reunion

Cutch should retire a Pirate

I am not always one for sentimental stuff…. but, man, Cutch really should retire a Pirate.

He spear headed the Pirates rising from the ashes to make the postseason in 2013, 2014 and 2015. Few players in franchise history have meant more to the fan base than Cutch has, and, hell, few players have loved the fan base and Pittsburgh more. This is one time I’ll get sentimental.

Andrew McCutchen is 35-years-old. Make no bones about it he is not the player Pirate fans remember. He is no longer the MVP, Silver Slugging caliber hitter that he once was. He has not been for a few years now which is thanks in large part to the knee injuries that will likely cost him a spot in the Hall of Fame. That said, Cutch can still play and he should play his career out in Pittsburgh.

Give McCutchen a two-year deal worth $17-20 million. Throw an option year on there in case he still has gas left in the tank after 2023. Let him ride his career out in Pittsburgh. Let Cutch’s swan song be with the 2023/2024 Pirates as the team rises to prominence and postseason contention once again.

Pittsburgh loves Andrew McCutchen. Andrew McCutchen loves Pittsburgh. The Pittsburgh Pirates need outfield help and Andrew McCutchen plays the outfield. Shortly after whenever he retires from playing the Pirates will retire McCutchen’s number 22. Do the right thing. Bring Cutch home. Let him finish his career as a Pirate.