The Meaning of McCutchen: A Tale of Pirates Loyalty
Most of Andrew McCutchen’s 16 MLB seasons have been spent with the Pittsburgh Pirates. His importance to the team reaches beyond their home ballpark.
Andrew McCutchen (22) of the Pittsburgh Pirates reacts as he rounds the bases after hitting a grand slam home run in the second inning during the game against the Baltimore Orioles at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on September 26, 2017. Justin Berl/Getty Images
The choice was clear. The Pittsburgh Pirates had to re-sign Andrew McCutchen this off-season. The message sent by the organization in making this roster move is vital to their fan base.
Success hinges on leadership. With all winning baseball clubs, that success could be traced back to one individual in the clubhouse: the man others in time of doubt or fear can approach for reassurance.
Donald Laible
Author
Don has covered pro baseball for several decades, beginning in the minor leagues as a radio broadcaster in the NY Mets organization. His Ice Chips & Diamond Dust blog ran from 2012-2020 at uticaod.com. His baseball passion surrounds anything concerning the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and writing features on the players and staff of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Don currently resides in southwest Florida.
