The Pittsburgh Pirates don’t have an Andrew McCutchen “want” problem. It’s more of an Andrew McCutchen fit problem.
The version of McCutchen Pittsburgh can justify in 2026 isn’t an everyday DH, middle-of-the-order emotional support role. He would need to be a smartly deployed veteran bat who still matters — without pretending he’s still an outfield option. He logged only seven outfield games in 2025, and at 39 years old, the reality is he’s a DH-only player now.
The Pirates have been loud about needing more offense, and the broader reporting around the team has framed the DH/impact-bat chase as a key offseason lane — especially with McCutchen hitting free agency.