Andrew McCutchen, Pirates agree to long-term deal
Pittsburgh has secured their star center fielder for next six years, a sign the Pirates are investing in their future.
Andrew McCutchen and the Pirates agreed to a six-year, $51.5 million contract, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported.
The deal buys out McCutchen's three remaining arbitration years and his first two years of free agency. There is also a club option for 2018 worth $14.75 million.
The Pirates are coming off a their most successful season since 2003, winning 72 games under manager Clint Hurdle. In recent history, the Pirates were unable to retain their young talent. Not this time around.
"We said from the very beginning that we have a plan to build talent and then to retain and build on talent that are key pieces of the organization," team principal owner Bob Nutting said last week. "(General manager) Neal (Huntington) has a clear understanding of what those key pieces are."
McCuthchen joins third baseman Jose Tabata as the only Pirates with long-term deals. Tabata signed a six-year, $15 million contract in August.
McCutchen, 25, was the Pirates first round pick in the 2005 amateur pick. Last season he was one of three Pirates to be named to the National League All-Star team.
He hit .291 with 24 home runs and 54 RBI heading into the break. However, he struggled the second half of the season, batting just .216 with nine homers and 35 RBI.
McCuthchen's contract is the second richest in Pirates history. Jason Kendall signed a six-year, $60 million deal beginning the 2002 season.
