Lots of players find themselves tired of the workouts, the batting practice, stretching, throwing, and fielding drills when they reach a certain age.
It’s normal, even natural: there comes a point in everybody’s life when there is a need to step away from the game.
MLB outfielder Andrew McCutchen, fortunately for Pittsburgh Pirates fans, is not at that point yet.
According to MLB insider Mark Feinsand, he will be returning to the Pirates on a one-year deal.
“Andrew McCutchen is returning to the Pirates on a one-year, $5 million deal, per source. @JMackeyPG was on it,” Feinsand tweeted.
At 37 years old, McCutchen remains a highly productive hitter and a manager’s dream: he hit .256/.378/.397 with 12 home runs and a .776 OPS last season with Pittsburgh, showing impeccable on-base skills.
Fans are delighted to have him back.
Good for Cutch, still getting his money
— Chandler Enfinger (@ChandlerEnfing1) December 19, 2023
Massive W
— Tony (@CoolBroNiceFlex) December 19, 2023
rare Pittsburgh sports W
— alex (@highlightheaven) December 19, 2023
McCutchen also had a good reason to come back at least one more season: he is one home run shy of 300 for his career.
It’s a cool milestone that is worth pursuing being so close.
The former NL MVP is not what he used to be defensively and he has lost a step, but few hitters have his plate discipline and he still can drive the ball with authority.
He does seem to be getting closer and closer to the end of the line.
I feel like this is his farewell season.
— SteelCityDelegate (@Chaos412PGH) December 19, 2023
The Pirates are not that far from actually contending for a spot in the postseason.
The hope is that they manage to give McCutchen one last shot at truly competing for a spot in October.
It’s not easy, but it can be done.
Bringing back their star and icon is a good step toward that goal.
NEXT: Insider Reveals Latest Andrew McCutchen News