Pirates' Andrew McCutchen ..

Pirates’ Andrew McCutchen … with knee injury. Read More 👇

Pittsburgh Pirates veteran outfielder Andrew McCutchen has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to inflammation in his left knee, an injury that has been bothering him for some time. The Pirates made the announcement via their team account on X (formerly Twitter), marking a significant setback for the 37-year-old former MVP who has been a pivotal figure for the team both on and off the field this season.

McCutchen recently returned to the lineup after a short absence, during which he admitted to playing through pain, stating that his knee was only about 70 percent healed. Despite his efforts to push through the discomfort, McCutchen aggravated the injury while running the bases during Friday’s game, forcing him to exit in the seventh inning. This incident not only highlights the severity of his condition but also underscores the difficult position he finds himself in as he tries to balance his desire to compete with the reality of his physical limitations.

The Pirates, who have struggled mightily since the All-Star break, currently hold the second-worst record in baseball during this period, trailing only the Chicago White Sox. They recently managed to break a 10-game losing streak, thanks in large part to a strong performance from National League Rookie of the Year frontrunner Paul Skenes. However, the victory was bittersweet as it coincided with McCutchen’s injury, a blow to a team that has already faced significant challenges this season.

Despite the Pirates’ disappointing standing—seven games below .500 and 12.5 games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central—McCutchen has remained a consistent presence and leader for a young Pirates roster. His veteran experience and leadership have been invaluable in the clubhouse, especially during a season where the team’s postseason hopes have dimmed. Even as the Pirates find themselves 6.5 games out of the National League Wild Card race, with six teams ahead of them vying for the final playoff spot, McCutchen has continued to set an example through his perseverance and performance.

Prior to landing on the injured list, McCutchen was in the midst of an impressive stretch at the plate, boasting an 11-game hitting streak. In August, he had been slashing an outstanding .367/.459/.700, according to Tribune-Review Sports’ Kevin Gorman. Over the course of the season, McCutchen has contributed 16 home runs, 40 RBIs, 59 runs scored, and has posted a .741 OPS with an OPS+ of 108. His efforts have earned him a 1.0 WAR in 101 games this year, further solidifying his role as a key player for Pittsburgh.

McCutchen’s return to the Pirates in 2023, after signing a one-year, $5 million deal, was marked by several milestones, including hitting his 300th career home run. He has since increased that total to 315 home runs, along with 219 stolen bases, over his 16-year career. Despite the challenges of this season, McCutchen’s contributions have been significant, and his presence will be sorely missed as he recovers from his latest setback.

As the Pirates continue their campaign, McCutchen’s health and eventual return will be crucial for a team that has relied heavily on his leadership and production throughout a tumultuous season.