Andrew McCutchen signs minor-league deal with Braves

Andrew McCutchen. Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Andrew McCutchen signs minor-league deal with Braves

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Jul 3, 2026 12:42 PM ET

According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Atlanta Braves have signed Andrew McCutchen to a minor-league deal. The 39-year-old is a former NL MVP and five-time All-Star who spent 12 seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates across two separate stints.

The Braves signed McCutchen to enhance their outfield depth and add a veteran presence amid their injury-plagued roster. Some of their key injuries have included Ronald Acuna Jr., Sean Murphy and Spencer Strider.

The Texas Rangers signed McCutchen prior to the 2026 season but then released him in late May, and he had remained unsigned on the free-agent market. By signing McCutchen, the Braves have acquired a low-risk option with a ton of experience under his belt.

It also provides them with a corner outfielder and designated hitter option as they look to continue to hold onto first place in the NL East. McCutchen also grew up as a fan of the Braves and would love to add a World Series title to his resume before he retires.

Andrew McCutchen is signing a minor-league deal with the Braves, per @JonHeyman pic.twitter.com/jJojkQrDb6
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 3, 2026

Andrew McCutchen continues to perform as a veteran

McCutchen currently sits third overall in hits (2,280) among active players behind elite stars Freddie Freeman (2,525) and Jose Altuve (2,446). McCutchen is the true definition of a veteran player who demonstrates true passion for the game.

He is pushing to make a comeback at the MLB level, which showcases his determination to keep playing. If he is able to get a call-up to the major leagues, he could certainly help the Braves out, making October baseball exciting by unleashing every ounce of success he has left in him.

McCutchen also spent three seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies (2019-2021). He recorded a .237 batting average with 218 hits, 47 home runs and 143 RBI across 260 games with the Phillies during his tenure with them.

He also proved to be effective in his short stint with the New York Yankees in 2018, compiling a .253 batting average with 22 hits and five home runs and 10 RBI across 25 games.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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