Andrew McCutchen Officially Not Returning to Pirates, Signs Minor-League Deal With New Team
It’s now confirmed. Andrew McCutchen won’t be returning to the Pittsburgh Pirates in 2026.
McCutchen and the Texas Rangers have agreed to a minor-league deal with an invite to spring training, as first reported by Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News. The agreement is pending a physical.
McCutchen’s deal with the Rangers solidifies a rocky end to his second stint in Pittsburgh. The 39-year-old, who spent the last three seasons in Pittsburgh after first returning to his original organization in 2023, made several posts on social media in recent weeks after it was clear the Pirates were heading in a different direction.
McCuctchen, who had served as the Pirates primary designated hitter since returning, slashed .239/.333/.367 with 22 doubles, 13 home runs and 57 RBI in 135 games last season.
It was once assumed that McCutchen, a fan favorite and the face of the Pirates in the 21st century, would end his career in Pittsburgh, the city in which he’s established his permanent residence. But in the end that was not the case.
McCutchen, of course, emerged as one of the best players in baseball during his first stint with the Pirates from 2009-17. He won the 2013 National League MVP, was named an All-Star five straight seasons from 2011-15, won four Silver Sluggers, a Gold Glove and the Roberto Clemente award. He also led the Pirates to three straight postseason appearances from 2013-15.
In an effort to improve the offense this offseason, the Pirates made a number of acquisitions to lengthen the lineup. Among them was veteran designated hitter Marcell Ozuna, who signed a one-year deal that includes an option for 2027. Once Ozuna was signed, it was nearly impossible to envision a spot on the roster for McCutchen.
In what could be his last season in Major League Baseball, it’s an unfortunate end to an otherwise phenomenal marriage between McCutchen and the Pirates. But the Pirates ended up sacrificing sentimental feelings for what they feel gives them their best shot of winning in 2026.
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