The Pittsburgh Pirates have reached an agreement with former franchise icon Andrew McCutchen on a one-year, $5 million contract, according to Jason Mackey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The deal, pending a physical examination, is expected to be officially announced on Wednesday.

The reunion between McCutchen and the Pirates comes as no surprise, as it was widely anticipated. McCutchen, who returned to Pittsburgh in 2023, has been a beloved figure in the organization. Throughout the year, reports indicated that both sides were keen on continuing their partnership, with McCutchen expected to don the Pirates' jersey for the remainder of his career.

Despite suffering a partial tear of his Achilles in September, McCutchen, who is now 37 years old, demonstrated his prowess on the field. In the 2023 season, he signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Pirates and made an impact by hitting 12 home runs and displaying excellent plate discipline, drawing walks in 15.9% of his plate appearances. With a batting line of .256/.378/.397, McCutchen showcased his offensive capabilities, earning a weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 115, indicating he was 15% better than the league average hitter. His baserunning skills were still evident, stealing 11 bases out of 14 attempts.

Primarily serving as a designated hitter, McCutchen spent only 64 2/3 innings in right field. It is likely that he will continue in a similar role this year, rejoining the Pirates on the same $5 million deal as the previous season. While Jack Suwinski and Bryan Reynolds are expected to hold down two everyday outfield spots, players such as Edward Olivares, Joshua Palacios, and Connor Joe will be competing for playing time. McCutchen may still occasionally take his position on the grass.

The 2023 campaign was cut short for McCutchen due to a season-ending injury, preventing him from hitting his 300th career home run. However, with plenty of opportunities expected in the upcoming season, it is likely that he will reach this milestone while proudly wearing the Pirates' uniform. McCutchen's illustrious career includes five All-Star appearances, a Gold Glove award in 2012, and the National League MVP title in 2013.

McCutchen's prime years coincided with the Pirates' last competitive run, which saw them make the playoffs for three consecutive years from 2013 to 2015. Since then, however, the team has struggled to return to the postseason. The 2023 campaign showed some promise, with the Pirates finishing with a record of 76-86, their best since 2018. With a young and talented core, the Pirates hope to reignite their competitiveness, and McCutchen's leadership and veteran presence will be invaluable in bridging the gap between the two eras of Pittsburgh baseball.

As for the Pirates' payroll, Roster Resource currently estimates it at $70 million for the 2024 season, slightly lower than last year's opening day figure of $73 million. General Manager Ben Cherington has hinted at a potential increase in payroll, suggesting that the team may be willing to invest further. Meanwhile, Mackey's post suggests that the Pirates could bolster their pitching staff through a trade in the near future.

The Pirates' re-signing of Andrew McCutchen is a significant move that not only brings back a beloved figure but also reinforces the team's commitment to its fans and aspirations for success. With McCutchen's veteran presence and skill set, the Pirates aim to build upon the progress made in 2023 and create a winning atmosphere in the upcoming season.