Pirates Must Resolve Feud With Disgruntled Franchise Legend
Spring training is almost here, but the Pittsburgh Pirates still have some unfinished business to attend to. Theyβd 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 isnβt happy about it. The Pirates legend has recently been voicing his displeasure on social media, saying heβs βnot doneβ and indicating that heβd like to retire on his own terms, presumably with Pittsburgh.
After 17 MLB seasons, including 12 with the Pirates, heβs earned that right and deserves it. However, Pittsburgh may not be interested in bringing him back.
Things are awkward between Andrew McCutchen and the Pirates. But conflict might have been unavoidable. Column: https://t.co/KR1xYOcIZ8
β Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) February 3, 2026
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 heβs essentially a replacement-level player.
That doesnβt 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.
The Pirates are trying to be more competitive this year, but McCutchen hasnβt become a liability yet. He can still get on base and pop a few homers.
If Pittsburgh wants to move on from McCutchen, thatβs 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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