With a month remaining until the MLB trade deadline, teams across the league are eagerly exploring opportunities to bolster their rosters for a shot at the postseason.
The Texas Rangers have emerged as a team poised to make significant moves, reportedly setting their sights on acquiring former MVP Andrew McCutchen from the Pittsburgh Pirates.
According to MLB Network Insider Jon Morosi’s recent report, the Rangers have initiated talks with the Pirates to discuss the possibility of bringing McCutchen to Texas.
Confirming: The Rangers have broached the possibility of acquiring Andrew McCutchen, but the Pirates are not prepared to move yet.
The deal would have particular interest to Texas if at least one pitcher is part of the deal, as well.@MLBNetwork @MLBNetworkRadio
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) June 26, 2023
However, the Pirates appear hesitant to engage in trade negotiations at this time, suggesting a potential hurdle for the Rangers pursuit.
McCutchen, who has enjoyed a resurgent season at the plate, is currently delivering his best performance since 2017. The designated hitter has amassed an impressive .271 batting average, along with nine doubles, nine home runs, and 24 RBIs.
While primarily occupying the DH role for the Pirates, he has also demonstrated versatility by occasionally playing in the outfield.
The Pirates experienced a promising start to the season, emerging as one of the top teams in April. Unfortunately, they have since struggled, enduring a current dismal stretch.
Because of their struggles, the Pirates are expected to shift their focus to selling at the deadline, allowing young players to establish themselves in the major leagues.
On the other hand, the Texas Rangers have shown immense promise throughout the season and are considered strong contenders to represent the American League in the World Series.
Spearheaded by a revamped starting rotation, the Rangers are keen on augmenting their roster by adding both a potent bat and an additional arm before the trade deadline.
Adding intrigue to the potential trade, Andrew McCutchen has a history with Rangers manager Bruce Bochy.
The outfielder played under Bochy during the 2018 season with the San Francisco Giants, further fueling speculation that McCutchen could soon find himself frequently penciled into the Rangers lineup under his former skipper’s guidance.
As the trade deadline looms closer, the Rangers will continue their pursuit of McCutchen, aiming to solidify their chances of a deep playoff run.
Whether the Pirates ultimately decide to part ways with one of the best players in their franchise’s history remains uncertain.