Pirates GM Says McCutchen 'Will Always Be a Pirate'

Even if former MVP doesn't make 2026 roster, team won't close door on potential future role

Feb. 10, 2026 at 8:07pm

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Pittsburgh Pirates general manager Ben Cherington stated that the team will never completely rule out finding a future role for longtime franchise star Andrew McCutchen, even if the former MVP doesn't make the 2026 roster.

Why it matters

McCutchen was a key part of the Pirates' resurgence in the early 2010s, making the All-Star team five times and winning the NL MVP award in 2013. His departure from the team in 2018 was seen as the end of an era, so the possibility of a reunion, even in a limited capacity, would be meaningful for the franchise and its fans.

The details

Cherington said the team 'will never shut the door' on potentially bringing back McCutchen, who is currently a free agent after being released by the Phillies last season. The 39-year-old outfielder is unlikely to make the Pirates' 2026 roster, but the team wants to leave open the possibility of finding him a role in the organization in the future.

  • Cherington made these comments on February 10, 2026 during Pirates spring training in Bradenton, Florida.

The players

Ben Cherington

The general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Andrew McCutchen

A longtime star outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates who was the NL MVP in 2013.

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What they’re saying

“We will never shut the door on potentially finding a role for Andrew McCutchen in the future.”

— Ben Cherington, General Manager

What’s next

The Pirates will continue to evaluate their roster and potential roles for McCutchen as the 2026 season approaches.

The takeaway

Despite McCutchen's likely inability to make the 2026 Pirates roster, the team's commitment to keeping the door open for a future role shows the lasting impact he had on the franchise and its fans during his prime years.