McCutchen’s rise followed the McLouth trade, becoming a franchise cornerstone. His trajectory embodies how a single roster move can spawn long‐term fantasy and real‐world value.

McCutchen’s veteran presence provides intermittent value with on-base skills and occasional power, making him a deeper-league or daily-genre option rather than a stable, season-long anchor.

McCutchen’s liner to the final out was another reminder of his late-season relevance, with Marte’s catch ending a rally and preserving the Pirates’ chances in a wild-card chase that remains unsettled as the schedule winds down.

McCutchen brings veteran leadership and steady power, a consistent fantasy contributor for Pirates.

McCutchen, 39, is in his 17th MLB season and 12th with Pittsburgh, returning in 2023 to serve as the Pirates’ primary DH. His future is uncertain beyond six games left in 2025, with a strong desire to keep playing but no clear destination.