Spring training is almost here, but the Pittsburgh Pirates still have some unfinished business to attend to. They’d still like to add another hitter before the offseason ends, and they still need to figure out what to do with Andrew McCutchen.
McCutchen, 39, remains a free agent, and he isn’t happy about it. The Pirates legend has recently been voicing his displeasure on social media, saying he’s “not done” and indicating that he’d like to retire on his own terms, presumably with Pittsburgh.
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After 17 MLB seasons, including 12 with the Pirates, he’s earned that right and deserves it. However, Pittsburgh may not be interested in bringing him back.
McCutchen was solid offensively last season and has aged gracefully, posting an OPS of at least .700 every year of his career. However, his WAR and OPS have declined in each of the last two seasons to the point where he’s essentially a replacement-level player.
That doesn’t account for his veteran leadership and positive impact on the clubhouse, of course. If he wants to come back for one more season, Pittsburgh should find a way to make it work.
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The Pirates are trying to be more competitive this year, but McCutchen hasn’t become a liability yet. He can still get on base and pop a few homers.
If Pittsburgh wants to move on from McCutchen, that’s okay, too. Baseball is a business, and he understands that. But whatever the Pirates decide, they must find a way to resolve their feud with him before the season starts.
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