Even before the Pirates' season ended, the speculation on whether Andrew McCutchen would return to Pittsburgh in 2026 was already building. Each one of his interviews made it feel like he'd had enough of this organization.
In an article written by John Perrotto, McCutchen stated a few games before the season ended, "I do want to continue playing, so wherever that may be. I’m looking forward to seeing where the offseason takes me."
Afterwards, insider Alex Stumpf said that there is a "distinct possibility" that McCutchen signs elsewhere. Entering potentially his final season, McCutchen could very well be ring chasing, rather than being the leader in the Pirates clubhouse.