Pirates’ Andrew McCutchen Records 2000th Career Hit

(Article image creds: AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Originally published June 13, 2023, for Kill That Noise (edited and revised)

Andrew McCutchen, the veteran centerfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, earned his 2000th career hit on Sunday against the New York Mets. He was the 2013 National League Most Valuable Player and a five-time All-Star. He also won the Silver Slugger four times and a Gold Glove. All of this happened as a Pirate. The multi-time award winner and 2005 first pick was a Pirate fan favorite, but from 2018-2022, McCutchen played for the New York Yankees, San Francisco Giants, Philadelphia Phillies, and Milwaukee Brewers. McCutchen returned to Pittsburgh this offseason after beginning his career there.

Just over 14 years ago, on June 4th, 2009, the then-rookie McCutchen debuted against the New York Mets, beginning a legendary career. He got two hits in his debut. In his rookie season, McCutchen finished fourth in the NL Rookie of the Year race. And just two years later, in 2011, he made his first five consecutive All-Star games. It was then that McCutchen became a household name and a fan favorite. A season before winning the 2013 NL MVP, he finished third for that same award in 2012.

In June 2023, in a game against the New York Mets–the same team he got his first hit off of- he earned his 2000th career hit. The soon-to-be McCutchen now echoed his spot to be considered one of the best Pirates over the past several decades. McCutchen is no Roberto Clemente or Honus Wagner, but his legacy will remain one of the best and most successful modern-day Pirates.

McCutchen, who will turn 37 in October, will probably be far from the magic number 3000. He is in his 15th MLB season but also spent a few years in the minors. The Pirates legend may not be a National Baseball Hall of Fame member. However, he will etch himself into Pirates History and most likely have his number retired.