The Philadelphia Phillies have added a veteran presence to their outfield, agreeing to terms on a three-year, $50 million contract with 2013 NL MVP Andrew McCutchen. The signing was first reported Tuesday afternoon by Matt Gelb on Twitter:
The Andrew McCutchen deal is for three years — plus a club option — and $50 million, according to sources.
— Matt Gelb (@MattGelb) December 11, 2018
Outfielder Andrew McCutchen Signs with the Phillies
McCutchen is coming off a 2018 season split between the San Francisco Giants and New York Yankees, posting a combined batting average of .255 to go along with 20 homers and 65 RBI. Although McCutchen’s 2018 numbers would ordinarily be considered solid, across-the-board production. His home run and RBI tally, as well as his batting average and slugging percentage, were his lowest since 2010 when he was in his second year in the big leagues. McCutchen’s 145 strikeouts in 2018 also set a career-high.
Still, there is reason to believe the 32-year-old McCutchen has some gas left in the tank at this stage of his career. Following his trade to the Bronx in August, McCutchen seemed rejuvenated at the plate. That was reflected by marked improvement in both his walk and strikeout rates. The Fort Meade, Florida native posted an .892 OPS while tallying 5 long balls, 10 RBI, and 18 runs scored in 87 at bats for the Yankees.
Entering his 11th year in the majors, time is beginning to run out on McCutchen to capture that elusive World Series ring. McCutchen was the face of the Pittsburgh Pirates franchise for nine years before his trade last winter to San Francisco. He experienced four straight losing seasons upon reaching the big leagues in 2009. The Pirates then strung together three consecutive postseason appearances. In 2013, they bowed out of the division series. Each of the following two years they fell in the Wild Card game.
Impact
McCutchen will join a Phillies team aiming to battle in a very competitive National League East in 2019. He will join a crowded young outfield with Odubell Herrera, Nick Williams, and Roman Quinn also in the mix. As a versatile player who has plenty of experience at all three outfield spots, McCutchen’s veteran presence and leadership will also be an asset in the Phillies clubhouse. McCutchen is a five-time National League All-star, four-time Silver Slugger, and one-time Gold Glove recipient in 2012.
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