The Texas Rangers have been an interesting and fun team to watch in 2023.
After a disastrous 2022 season, the Rangers are back near the top of the pack, as they were for a good part of the 2010s.
They hold a commanding 5.5 game lead in the AL West over the defending World Series champion Houston Astros.
Their starting pitch has been a major reason for their success, but based on reports from MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, they may be looking to add a bat at the trade deadline.
With the Pittsburgh Pirates expected to be sellers this year, Andrew McCutchen could be on the move.
Morosi confirmed on Twitter that the veteran outfielder is on the Rangers’ radar.
Confirming: The Rangers have discussed acquiring Andrew McCutchen, but the Pirates aren’t ready to move just yet.
The deal would be of particular interest to Texas if at least one pitcher is also part of the deal.@MLBNetwork @MLBNetworkRadio
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) June 26, 2023
Morosi also noted that a deal could be reached if the Rangers send a pitcher back to Pittsburgh.
Texas has an offense that already consists of Adolis Garcia, Marcus Semien, Nathaniel Lowe, Corey Seager, Jonah Heim and Josh Jung.
But another outfield bat could give them a huge advantage as they try to hold off the Los Angeles Astros and Angels.
McCutchen could also serve as the occasional designated hitter and split duties with Mitch Garver.
The 36-year-old outfielder returned to the Pirates last offseason on a one-year deal after making brief stops with the San Francisco Giants, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies and Milwaukee Brewers.
He is currently hitting .271 with nine home runs, 24 RBIs and an .825 OPS in his first 225 at-bats of the year.
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