New Pirates signing just gave Andrew McCutchen the ultimate respect

The Andrew McCutchen saga has been grossly mishandled by the Pittsburgh Pirates, to the point that they're internally admitting that they messed up... without doing anything to fix or rectify the chasm between them and their franchise legend.

It's true that he's getting older and lost a step in both the outfield and batter's box. It's also true that a 39-year-old designated hitter who posted a below-average wRC+ last year may not have a place on a (hopefully) contending team.

But this isn't just any aging veteran. This is Andrew McCutchen, one of few players to win an MVP and Roberto Clemente Award in their careers. It's just a shame to see the very end of his legendary tenure come to this kind of conclusion.

But fans aren't alone in their chagrin. New Pirates first baseman Ryan O'Hearn has made it clear that the players also want to see No. 22 back in town for the 2026 season.

"As it stands right now, I'm the oldest guy on the team, and I hate that," the 32-year-old O'Hearn said in an appearance on Foul Territory. "There's something to be said for adding veteran [voices to the clubhouse]. Also, Andrew McCutchen should have a retired number in the stadium."

"I would love to play with Cutch," the first baseman added at the end of his segment.

Ryan O'Hearn vouches for Pirates to bring back Andrew McCutchen for one last ride

It speaks volumes that a new member of the team is being so outspoken about Cutch's legacy and his status within the city of Pittsburgh. He's a living legend who deserves every possible honor upon retirement — and also the freedom to choose when that retirement comes.

It's also telling that O'Hearn's previous team, the San Diego Padres, have been so gracious as Yu Darvish mulls his own retirement. Numerous players have credited Darvish with helping mentor them, and even front office chief A.J. Preller has lauded the Japanese ace for his brilliant career.

For reference, Darvish has spent five seasons in San Diego. McCutchen has been in Pittsburgh for 12.

For his part, O'Hearn has immediately stepped into the role of team leader, accepting his elder statesman badge with pride and honor. He's challenged the front office to continue upgrading the roster while challenging the young core of the Pirates to put the franchise's past behind them and work toward a playoff berth for the first time since 2015.

He's clearly a voice worth listening to, and one the Buccos should be happy they signed. Now, they should heed his calls to bring McCutchen back for a well-deserved swan song.