After a dozen seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Andrew McCutchen is moving on. McCutchen reportedly agreed to a Minor League contract with the Texas Rangers on Thursday, although the deal is still pending a physical.

While McCutchen’s departure isn’t totally unexpected, it still sent shockwaves through the Pirates clubhouse. The news was bittersweet for several Pittsburgh players who were hoping he might still return, including pitcher Mitch Keller.

Although Keller is happy for McCutchen and his new opportunity, he’s sad to see the former NL MVP go.

“Obviously happy for him that he’s with a team and he’s still playing. I think any team could have benefited from him on a roster. He’s a great player, and he’s just a great human being,” Keller told Pirates beat writer Colin Beazley on Thursday. “Disappointed that we couldn’t get him over here.”

Asked Mitch Keller for his reactions on Andrew McCutchen signing a minor league deal with the Rangers.

Keller is happy that McCutchen got the opportunity, but disappointed the Pirates didn’t bring McCutchen back. Full quote: pic.twitter.com/kro2lnyaxU

— Colin Beazley (@colin_beazley) March 5, 2026

Keller praised McCutchen for helping mentor him and his teammates over the last three years, saying the five-time All-Star “truly emulates what a Pittsburgh Pirate is: hard work, day-to-day going through the grind and playing your hardest.”

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McCutchen certainly embodied those qualities, especially over the last few years as he entered his late 30s and Pittsburgh faltered in the standings. He could have demanded a trade or left in free agency, but he remained loyal to the franchise that drafted and developed him.

The Pirates will miss him as they prepare for their first season without him since 2022.

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“It sucks that he’s not here, obviously, but I’m really happy for him,” Keller added. “Looking forward to playing against him again.”

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