Andrew McCutchen may be 39 years old, but the dude undoubtedly still has some pop left in his pat.
The biggest concern with teams outside of the Pittsburgh Pirates resigning McCutchen is that fact that he played 135 games in 2025, but was a DH in 120 games. This shows that all McCutchen is at this point is a hitter who won’t give you anything as a fielder.
When looking for teams to be a potential fit for Andrew, it’s clear the Pittsburgh Pirates are the number one team if they don’t land a superstar like Kyle Schwarber, but let’s discuss why the San Diego Padres are a legit possibility for McCutchen.
*This is a prediction, not a report*
More MLB Content From TWSN:
The Dream Free Agent Signing For Every MLB Team
No, The Los Angeles Dodgers Aren’t Ruining Baseball
Top 5 World Series Game 7s of All Time
The San Diego Padres are one of those MLB teams that needs to have a big free agency, and the immediate need for this squad is their designated hitter spot.
When it was announced that Texas Rangers DH Adolis Garcia was a free agent, Padres fans were clamoring for him, and here are some of their comments that show the major need for a DH:
“The Padres need a DH”.
“the Padres desperately need power production from 1B/DH”.
“Sign/Trade for a DH who has 25-30 HR Power, and it doesn’t matter if he batts .225 they need the pop”.
The Padres could view McCutchen as a valuable veteran bat and depth piece to help balance their roster.
As a proven hitter with decades of major-league experience, McCutchen would add leadership and a reliable bat, especially if the Padres want to supplement their youthful core with a steady veteran presence.
Given that McCutchen will likely be open to a shorter-term, lower-cost contract in 2026, San Diego could acquire him with limited risk. His ability to handle designated-hitter duties or spot outfield work also gives the Padres flexibility as they juggle playing time among their younger stars, something valuable on a team pushing for contention.
Looking at 2025, the Padres already have several core players who established themselves as team pillars. Manny Machado delivered a strong season — he led the club in doubles, homers, and RBIs, showcasing both power and consistency.
Fernando Tatis Jr. returned to form as a two-way force: his bat, speed, and elite defense in right field provided a key spark. Add in young contributors like Jackson Merrill, who broke, and the Padres already have a foundation built on youth, talent, and a winning mindset.
McCutchen’s veteran presence could complement that core, bridging the gap between experienced leadership and youthful upside — potentially helping San Diego remain competitive while developing their next generation of stars.
Andrew McCutchen Stats
In 2025, McCutchen played in 135 games for the Pittsburgh Pirates, posting a .239 batting average with 114 hits in 477 at-bats. Here’s his stats based on Pro-Baseball-Reference:
He scored 51 runs, hit 13 home runs, and drove in 57 RBIs. He also drew 67 walks, stole 1 base, and posted a .333 on-base percentage and .367 slugging percentage, giving him an .700 OPS for the season.
Andrew McCutchen’s accolades include winning the 2013 National League MVP, a year in which he led the Pirates back to the postseason and established himself as one of baseball’s premier all-around players.
He is also a five-time All-Star and a four-time Silver Slugger, showcasing his sustained excellence as a hitter throughout his prime.