The Pirates have been making heavy improvements this offseason with the lineup, which has included them signing designated hitter Marcell Ozuna to a one-year, $12 million contract. While that adds power to the lineup, it might also mean something difficult for Pirates fans: Andrew McCutchen might not be back this season.

McCutchen has been the heart of the Pirates for years. He first came up in 2009 and quickly became one of the best players in baseball. He helped lead the team to the playoffs in 2013, 2014, and 2015, ending a long postseason drought. 

He then went to the San Francisco Giants, and later spent time with the New York Yankees, Milwaukee Brewers, and the Philadelphia Phillies. His strongest season in that stretch was with Philly in 2019, when he had a .256 batting average and 29 home runs.

He returned to Pittsburgh in 2023. Many fans hoped he would finish his career where it started.

Last season, McCutchen mostly played as a designated hitter. That’s the same role Ozuna is expected to fill. With Ozuna now on the roster, there might not be room for both players.

The Pirates are trying to build a stronger lineup, and Ozuna’s power could help them compete.

Also, McCutchen did not have his best year in 2025, batting .239 with 13 home runs. Yet he remained a leader and mentored younger players.

McCutchen has been a leader and a role model for years. He brought energy to the city and gave fans hope through tough seasons. Even when he got older, he continued to play hard and support younger players.

If he doesn’t come back this season, he will finish his Pirates career with a .284 batting average, 1,712 hits, 241 home runs, five all-star selections, and the 2013 National League MVP award.