Andrew McCutchen is entering his 18th year with a sense of gratitude, debuting with the Rangers. He signed a minor league deal with the Rangers on March 6. Just days ago in Arlington, he was told he made the Opening Day roster.
It’s been a whirlwind three weeks for the 39-year-old, who is aware he’s nearing the end of his career.
Warm Reception in Philadelphia
When Andrew McCutchen’s name was announced as part of the Rangers’ Opening Day lineup on Thursday, he received a warmer welcome than most of the team, though not as loud as the cheers for the Phillies.
“I enjoyed myself for the time that I was here [2019-21],” said McCutchen, who doubled in the fourth inning of the Rangers’ 5-3 loss. “The fan base is passionate. They’re going to hold you accountable every time you step out there. I like being held accountable. They have an expectation of their team and of you personally. You can’t go through the motions when you get here, because if you do that, they’re going to remind you. I appreciated that.”
Near-Retirement Realisation
McCutchen admitted that being in Philadelphia for Opening Day was shocking, even to himself. As Spring Training progressed, he became increasingly certain that his career was over.
“I honestly thought there was like a 90% chance that I wasn’t going to be playing in 2026,” McCutchen said. “I was at the realization to where I thought that that was a possibility. To go from that in a very short amount of time to being here at this moment is crazy. It’s really hard to put into words that feeling.
“I think people will realize the appreciation that I have for the game, if they already don’t know that. I’m playing just as hard as I’ve ever played it, and maybe even harder than I have played it. I’ve got to continue to try to improve and do better. The only thing I can do is just be where my feet are.”
Opportunity with the Rangers
McCutchen acknowledged the mental toll it took on him to go unsigned all offseason, as even the Pirates opted to move forward without him. The Rangers gave him an opportunity to change the narrative and prove he could still be a big league starter. He’s well on his way to doing that.
McCutchen believes his Spring Training success was just that, Spring Training. He is now in a position to prove himself to everybody.
“Credit to him for staying ready,” said Rangers manager Skip Schumaker. “He came in and hit .500 in spring and was still running around and playing defense. His body feels good, he’s good in the clubhouse. He’s not coming here just to get another couple days of service time. He’s coming to win and to try to get a ring. That’s on his mind. He’s got a great resume, and he’s still got a lot left, in my opinion. He’s got a lot to prove, which is great for me because of all the other teams that didn’t want him.
McCutchen said he appreciates the game, and people will realise that if they don’t already know.