Pirates legend Andrew McCutchen's MLB future in question after Rangers roster move

Apr 11, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Texas Rangers right fielder Andrew McCutchen (4) in the dugout during the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Texas Rangers made a pretty fun offseason signing late into the year when they brought in former MVP and beloved Pittsburgh Pirates star Andrew McCutchen on a one-year deal.

He made the big league roster for Opening Day and has since appeared in 37 games for the Rangers, mainly as a designated hitter, with some playing time in left and right field.

However, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, after this 37-game tenure, the Rangers have made the unfortunate decision to designate McCutchen for assignment.

Rangers DFA Andrew McCutchen after 37 games

"Andrew McCutchen is designated for assignment by the Texas Rangers, who sign infielder Nicky Lopez," Nightengale reports.

While he's a beloved player in Major League Baseball, he has struggled for the Rangers during the 2026 MLB season.

Across 83 plate appearances for the Rangers, McCutchen had 14 hits, two doubles, one home run, five RBIs, nine walks, and 22 strikeouts with a .192 batting average and a .537 OPS.

Such offensive production resulted in McCutchen posting a 62 OPS+ and a -0.3 bWAR through the opening few months of the 2026 season.

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The Rangers are cutting ties with McCutchen after bringing him in as a late free agent addition. This decision has resulted in one big question: What happens next for Andrew McCutchen?

Following the Rangers' decision to designate him for assignment, McCutchen's future is in question. Will he retire, or find a new team to join? It's a question that will draw plenty of attention going forward.

The Pirates didn't want to bring him back, but with Marcell Ozuna's struggles, he might make sense for a reunion.

There is certainly going to be plenty of intrigue when it comes to what McCutchen's future entails, as the beloved outfielder, at 39 years old, might either retire or join a new club in the coming days.

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