Pirates still open to bringing longtime star back

Andrew McCutchen has established himself as a Pittsburgh Pirates legend. He may have a chance to add another chapter to that legacy in 2026.

Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that general manager Ben Cherington said that the Pirates are open to bringing McCutchen back for the upcoming season. However, Cherington also said that the Pirates are not done building their roster and McCutchen's role will be determined once that process is complete.

McCutchen has stated that he wants to return in 2026. He had told Mackey in August that he felt he was still capable of playing and that he wanted to be part of a winning ballclub. McCutchen added that he needed to prove he could be productive and do more than just fill a spot on the roster.

Improved Pittsburgh Pirates roster may have room for Andrew McCutchen in limited role

The latter part of McCutchen's statement may be the more difficult part. The 39-year-old had his worst season in the majors in 2025, posting a .239/.333/.367 batting line in his 551 plate appearances, hitting 13 homers and 22 doubles. For a player who is essentially a designated hitter only, that production is not enough.

Finding a spot for McCutchen may prove to be difficult as well. The Pirates have improved their roster as they signed Ryan O'Hearn in free agency and acquired Brandon Lowe, Jake Mangum and Jhostynxon Garcia in trades. O'Hearn and infielder Spencer Horwitz would seemingly have first base and the designated hitter roles locked in, although O'Hearn does have experience in the outfield.

Horwitz and O'Hearn could also be part of a path for McCutchen to return. Both players are left-handed hitters, whereas McCutchen hits from the right side. He also fared well against left-handed pitching, posting a .267/.353/.389 batting line in 150 plate appearances against lefties, hitting three homers and seven doubles. If he is willing to accept a part-time role, McCutchen may get his wish to be part of the next winning season in Pittsburgh.