Entering spring training, there were many different story lines with the Pittsburgh Pirates. The acquisition of A.J. Burnett stood front and center. The chain reaction from the deal brought the question of who will the five starters be in the rotation. Everyone also had their eyes on Pedro Alvarez to see if he could rebound from a dreadful 2011 campaign. One of the most important story lines however, was the contract situation of Andrew McCutchen. I have said over and over that the Pirates had to sign McCutchen to a long-term deal before camp was over to avoid arbitration at the end of this season. Well Pirate fans, you want the owners to spend money; your wish just came true.
Bob Nutting and company made sure that McCutchen won’t be going anywhere, anytime soon. Around midnight, news broke that according to sources, the Pirates and McCutchen have agreed to a six-year, $51.5 million with a club option for $14.75.
Well done ownership.
The Pirates have secured their biggest asset and their All-Star centerfielder to go along with Jose Tabata’s contract extension last season. The next step, securing hometown hero Neil Walker for the foreseeable future.
The 25-year old McCutchen led the Pirates in round trippers last season with 23. McCutchen hit .259 last season with 89 RBI and 23 stolen bases. McCutchen also had an OPS of .820 and a .456 SLG. McCutchen was one of three All-Star representatives last season for the Pirates, along with pitchers Kevin Correia and Joel Hanrahan.
Photo Credit: Pittsburgh Pirates
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