One of Clint Hurdle’s best attributes is how he handles his players, especially when they’re in a slump.
This was reinforced by the Andrew McCutchen situation over the past month. McCutchen flirted with the Mendoza line deep into May and was a liability as the No. 3 hitter. However, the Pirates needed McCutchen in the field, especially with Starling Marte’s suspension. There wasn’t a realistic option to bench McCutchen, the team’s best defensive outfielder.
Hurdle wanted to give McCutchen every opportunity to work his way out of his slump but Hurdle also needed him in the outfield.