Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Pirates' Offseason Strategies: Re-signing McCutchen and Pursuing Jo Adell
10/27/2025, 12:52:47 PM
Andrew McCutchen's Potential Return
The Pittsburgh Pirates are contemplating the future of Andrew McCutchen, who has been re-signed to a one-year, $5 million deal for the 2026 season. Despite coming off his worst season since his 2009 rookie year, McCutchen's performance metrics suggest he may still contribute positively to the team. In 2025, he recorded a batting line of .239/.333/.367 with 13 home runs, marking a decline in power output. However, his expected statistics, such as a .267 expected batting average (xBA) and a .429 expected slugging percentage (xSLG), indicate that he could still be an above-average hitter if he maintains his current approach.
Among Pirates batters with at least 300 plate appearances, McCutchen had the second-best xBA and xwOBA, as well as the third-best xSLG%. His ability to draw walks and maintain a low chase rate further supports the argument for his return. While some fans may prefer to see him retire or move on, the potential for McCutchen to provide value in 2026 remains significant.
Jo Adell as a Trade Target
As the Pirates look to bolster their offense, they have been identified as a potential trade destination for Jo Adell of the Los Angeles Angels. Adell had a breakout season in 2025, hitting 37 home runs and posting an OPS of .778. Given the Pirates' struggles at the plate, where they finished with the lowest slugging percentage and OPS in the league, acquiring Adell could address their offensive deficiencies.
Adell's power would be a welcome addition, especially considering he contributed nearly a third of the Pirates' total home runs in 2025. The Pirates have not signed a free agent to a multi-year deal since 2015, making a trade for Adell a more viable option to enhance their lineup. With two years of team control remaining, he could provide a long-term solution in left field, an area where the Pirates currently lack depth.
The Importance of Paul Skenes
While the Pirates are considering moves to improve their offense, they must also focus on retaining their pitching talent, particularly Paul Skenes. At just 23 years old, Skenes has emerged as a dominant force, posting a 1.97 ERA and 216 strikeouts in 2025. Despite speculation about potential trades, the Pirates have consistently indicated their intention to build around Skenes, who represents a significant asset for the franchise.
The management's commitment to Skenes suggests a desire to create a competitive team rather than dismantle it for prospects. However, the Pirates face pressure to improve their overall roster, as Skenes cannot single-handedly elevate the team to postseason contention.
Criticism of Management
The Pirates' management, led by General Manager Ben Cherington, has faced scrutiny for its inability to capitalize on player development and free agency. Fans have expressed frustration over the team's lack of offensive production and the management's failure to make impactful trades. Despite these challenges, interim manager Don Kelly has shown promise in improving the team's performance, leading to cautious optimism among fans.
Conclusion: A Path Forward
As the Pirates navigate the offseason, the decisions regarding Andrew McCutchen's potential return and the pursuit of Jo Adell will be pivotal. Balancing the retention of key pitching talent like Paul Skenes while addressing offensive shortcomings will be crucial for the team's future success. The Pirates' management must demonstrate a commitment to building a competitive roster to satisfy fan expectations and capitalize on their existing talent.
