The Atlanta Braves have added veteran outfielder Andrew McCutchen to the organization, signing the 39-year-old to a minor league contract in a move that could provide the longtime star with another opportunity to pursue the elusive World Series title before the end of his decorated career.
McCutchen joins Atlanta after being released by the Texas Rangers on May 28. During his brief stint with Texas, the former National League MVP struggled offensively, batting .192 with one home run, five RBIs, and 22 strikeouts across 37 games and 73 at-bats. Despite the difficult stretch, the Braves are hoping his experience and leadership can benefit the organization as he works his way back into form.
The five-time All-Star has built one of the most accomplished careers of his generation. Across 18 major league seasons and 2,299 games, McCutchen has accumulated 333 home runs, 2,280 hits, 1,157 RBIs, and 220 stolen bases while maintaining a career .271 batting average. He has suited up for the Pittsburgh Pirates, San Francisco Giants, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, Milwaukee Brewers, and Rangers, becoming a respected veteran throughout the league.
Although McCutchen has reached the postseason four times, he has never advanced beyond the Division Series, leaving a World Series appearance as one of the few achievements missing from his impressive résumé.
Originally selected 11th overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2005 MLB Draft, McCutchen returns to an organization he admired growing up. A lifelong Braves fan, he is expected to report to Triple-A Gwinnett, where he will attempt to earn a promotion to Atlanta’s major league roster later this season.
Braves manager Walt Weiss praised the veteran’s arrival before Friday’s matchup against the New York Mets, emphasizing the respect McCutchen commands throughout baseball. “He’s one of the most respected players in the game,” Weiss said. “He’s a pretty cool name to have in a Braves uniform.”
Alongside the McCutchen signing, Atlanta made several roster moves. The club recalled right-handed pitcher Anthony Molina after sending fellow right-hander James Karinchak to Triple-A Gwinnett following Thursday night’s contest. The Braves also reinstated left-handed pitcher Danny Young from the injured list after completing his rehabilitation assignment, while right-hander Ian Hamilton was designated for assignment to create roster flexibility.
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