Andrew McCutchen Thrives in 17th MLB Season with Pirates

Pittsburgh, PA – In his 17th season in Major League Baseball, Andrew McCutchen continues to prove he can still be a game-changer for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Despite initial expectations that he would serve mostly as a mentor when he rejoined the team in 2023, McCutchen’s contributions have become crucial for the Pirates’ success this year.

The Pirates are 9-7 when McCutchen is in the lineup, highlighting his impact on the team’s performance. Currently, he boasts a batting average of .257 with a .357 on-base percentage and a .400 slugging percentage, ranking among the top offensive players in the organization.

However, McCutchen’s role is under scrutiny. He has started in only 15 of the Pirates’ first 25 games, playing primarily as designated hitter or right fielder. The team’s struggles without him are evident, as they hold a dismal 1-8 record when he is absent.

The debate surrounding McCutchen’s playing time raises concerns about balancing his health with the team’s need for as many wins as possible. Manager Derek Shelton is faced with a tough decision: continue to start McCutchen, risking his health, or preserve his energy for the long run.

While the team is still developing other players like Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds, McCutchen’s recent performance shows he is still capable of producing at a high level. Last weekend, he hit a three-run homer and collected two hits in a standout game against the Angels, asserting his status as a key player.

Cruz, who is also emerging as a powerful presence in the lineup with five home runs this season, leads the league in stolen bases with 10. His performance has been critical, especially as the Pirates struggled to find consistency in their batting order, registering 23 different lineups in 23 games.

Though the Pirates are currently in a rebuilding phase, the combination of Cruz, McCutchen, and Reynolds shows potential to form a strong offensive core. The team will need to commit to consistent lineups if they hope to capitalize on their talents and improve as the season progresses.

As they continue their west coast trip, the Pirates hope that McCutchen can maintain this impressive form, offering guidance and performance as they navigate a challenging season ahead.