For many Pittsburgh Pirates fans, the idea of Andrew McCutchen donning the black and gold again isn’t just a sentimental wish—it could soon become a reality. The beloved former MVP and face of the franchise, who led the Pirates through a golden era of contention in the 2010s, may be on the brink of a return to Pittsburgh. According to recent analysis from MLB Network, McCutchen’s reunion with the Pirates is looking more likely than ever, sparking excitement and anticipation among a fanbase that still holds a special place for the outfielder.
For McCutchen, who played nine seasons in Pittsburgh, the connection to the city and the team has never faded. The Pirates’ playoff droughts, the trade rumors, and his eventual departures from the team haven’t diminished the lasting impact he had on the franchise. But after years spent playing with the San Francisco Giants, New York Yankees, and Milwaukee Brewers, could McCutchen finally come full circle and return home? The answer, according to experts on MLB Network, is that this long-awaited reunion might be closer than anyone expected.
The Case for a McCutchen Comeback
The heart of the argument for McCutchen’s return to Pittsburgh hinges not just on nostalgia, but also on baseball practicality. MLB Network analysts point out that McCutchen, though no longer in his prime, remains a valuable commodity on the field and an even more essential asset in the clubhouse. Despite being 37 years old, the outfielder posted a solid 2023 season with the Brewers, batting .257 with 17 home runs, 60 RBIs, and a .353 on-base percentage. These numbers suggest that McCutchen can still contribute meaningfully to a major league team, particularly in a designated hitter role, which the Pirates have struggled to fill consistently in recent seasons.
“Andrew McCutchen’s return to the Pirates could serve as the perfect bridge between their rebuilding process and future competitiveness,” said MLB Network’s analyst. “He’s not going to be the MVP-caliber player he was in 2013, but his presence on the roster—both offensively and as a mentor—would be incredibly beneficial.”
The Pirates have been steadily building a young core with players like Ke’Bryan Hayes, Oneil Cruz, and Bryan Reynolds, all of whom are critical to the franchise’s future. However, the team still lacks the veteran leadership and presence to guide those players through the rigors of a long season. That’s where McCutchen’s value goes beyond his bat. Having a former MVP in the clubhouse, someone who has experienced both the highs and lows of major league life, would provide the Pirates with a much-needed mentor for their up-and-coming stars.
McCutchen’s Leadership Could Guide Pittsburgh’s Future
One of the major benefits of bringing McCutchen back to Pittsburgh is his leadership. In his first stint with the Pirates, McCutchen was more than just a player; he was the face of the franchise, a team captain in all but name. His ability to connect with teammates, especially younger players, is one of the qualities that made him beloved in Pittsburgh.
For players like Ke’Bryan Hayes, who is seen as the future of the Pirates’ infield, having McCutchen around could accelerate their development. Hayes, a budding star and fan favorite, has praised McCutchen in the past for his mentorship during their time together, and the same could apply to younger players like Cruz or outfielder Jack Suwinski, who have the potential to be cornerstone players for the Pirates.
“Andrew is one of the best leaders in baseball,” said Pirates manager Derek Shelton. “He brings a lot of knowledge and experience that would be invaluable for our younger players. It’s not just what he can do on the field, it’s how he approaches the game. There’s a lot to learn from him.”
In fact, it’s this type of leadership that could help the Pirates avoid some of the pitfalls of a typical rebuild. With McCutchen in the fold, the franchise would have a steady, calming influence on its younger players, who might be facing the pressures of a rebuilding team and the challenges that come with managing expectations. The emotional and psychological support McCutchen could provide would be an underrated benefit that might help the Pirates’ young core reach their full potential faster.
Offensive Contributions and Fit with the Pirates’ Needs
While McCutchen’s best years may be behind him, he is still a productive hitter, especially in the context of the Pirates’ current roster. Pittsburgh’s offense has been a work in progress, and the team has lacked consistency from their designated hitter spot, a position that McCutchen could fill effectively. While McCutchen isn’t likely to return as an everyday outfielder, his ability to serve as a DH and an occasional corner outfielder would give the Pirates flexibility in how they use him.
Even in his twilight years, McCutchen still has a strong command of the strike zone and remains a consistent on-base threat. His ability to draw walks and hit for power against right-handed pitchers would add depth to the Pirates’ lineup, which has often relied on the production of players like Bryan Reynolds and Ke’Bryan Hayes. McCutchen’s return could help take some pressure off these young stars, providing protection in the order while also giving the team an experienced bat in clutch situations.
Looking at McCutchen’s 2023 numbers with Milwaukee, where he primarily served as a DH and occasionally played in the outfield, his .353 on-base percentage and 17 home runs would be welcome additions to the Pirates’ roster. The team would also likely value McCutchen’s ability to handle high-leverage situations and his reputation as someone who performs when the stakes are highest—a trait that Pittsburgh’s current roster could benefit from as it looks to get back to the postseason.
A Marketing and Fan Engagement Boost
Beyond McCutchen’s baseball skills, there is another important factor that the Pirates would be gaining: his marketability. McCutchen was one of the most popular athletes in Pittsburgh during his tenure with the Pirates, and his return would create a surge in fan interest, ticket sales, and merchandise. The emotional connection between McCutchen and Pirates fans is undeniable, and bringing him back to the Steel City could rekindle the passion and excitement that was so prevalent during his prime.
For the Pirates’ front office, re-signing McCutchen would also make sense from a business perspective. In a market that has historically struggled to retain top-tier talent, McCutchen’s return would represent a symbolic gesture of the Pirates’ commitment to building a winning culture, even if they are still in the process of rebuilding. Fans would see it as a sign that the team is willing to invest in both on-field success and fan engagement.
“There’s no question that bringing Cutch back would generate buzz,” said a local sports marketer. “He’s an icon in Pittsburgh, and his return would make the Pirates relevant again in a way that would energize the fanbase and create a renewed sense of optimism.”
A Possible Fairytale Ending
Andrew McCutchen’s return to the Pirates would not only be an exciting story for the team but also for the city of Pittsburgh. In many ways, McCutchen’s departure in 2018 marked the end of an era for the Pirates, one that was filled with playoff hopes, dramatic moments, and some of the most passionate baseball the city has seen in years. Bringing him back would serve as a way to close that chapter and, at the same time, open a new one—one that offers hope and excitement for the future.
For McCutchen, a return to Pittsburgh would likely be the perfect way to finish his career. A city that embraced him from the start, a fanbase that still chants his name, and a team that could benefit from his wisdom and ability would provide a fitting stage for a potential farewell. McCutchen’s return to Pittsburgh would be a fairytale ending to what has already been a remarkable career.
As the offseason progresses, the possibility of McCutchen’s return grows more likely. For Pirates fans, this news has been nothing short of a dream—one that could soon become a reality. For now, they’ll wait and watch, hoping to see their favorite son return home to Pittsburgh one last time.
