Pirates Clear Roster Space For Andrew McCutchen

The Pittsburgh Pirates signed veteran outfielder Andrew McCutchen to a one-year deal worth $5 million on Tuesday, and they announced the corresponding move two days later, designating right-handed pitcher Andre Jackson for assignment to clear up a spot on the 40-man roster.

Jackson appeared in 12 games for the Pirates in 2023 after the team acquired him from the Los Angeles Dodgers in return for cash considerations, making seven starts. A member of the rotation down the stretch as Pittsburgh’s rotation thinned out due to injuries and trades, Jackson logged a respectable 4.33 ERA in 43.2 innings.

General Manager Ben Cherington maintains that the team wants to add more starting pitching this offseason, but it seems like Jackson won’t be a part of those plans. Instead, the team announced that the move gives Jackson a chance to pursue an opportunity in Japan.

McCutchen saw his 2023 campaign come to a disappointing close as he suffered an Achilles tendon injury while sitting on the cusp of joining the 300 home run club. He slashed .256/.378/.397 in 112 games before the injury, surpassing a number of career milestones in the process. The 37-year-old right-handed bat, who spends most of his time at designated hitter these days, said during a press conference following the signing that he plans to play at least two more seasons. He also added that he hopes to retire as a Pirate.