Just like last year, Andrew McCutchen's second year in his second stint with the Pirates isn't going to be his last, at least that's the plan.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday after his one-year deal was made official McCutchen said he still feel like he can contribute.
"I feel like I can help the team and help the club anyway I can."
McCutchen says as long as he feels good, he believes he can make an impact
"I feel like I can play at least two more (seasons)," said McCutchen.
No matter how many more years he plays, McCutchen says he wants it to be in Pittsburgh.
"I don't want to be anywhere else. I hope to have the opportunity to retire as a Pirate. I feel like it's my final stop. I don't want to go anywhere else. I feel there is more for me to do and there is more that I can add to this team.
They aren't doing it out of any type of pity or they are not doing it because of who I am. They are doing it because they know there is still a lot I can bring to this team, not only off the field, but on the field too."
Speaking prior to McCutchen, Pirates General Manager Ben Cherington said they see him as a middle of the lineup bat.
He hit .256 last season with 100 hits, 12 home runs, 43 RBI and 11 stolen bases before an Achilles injury ended his season in early September. He is one home run away from 300.
If next year or the year after is his last year, don't expect him to go on a retirement tour like Miguel Cabrera.
"I'm a person that works better not under pressure," said McCutchen, adding he plays better when he is loose and thinks that would put unnecessary pressure on himself.
"I don't put a number on it, I don't say like in a year I'm done or two years I'm done, for me I just go I feel like I can play at least two more, at least two more," said McCutchen.
McCutchen also said he's feeling good and is running, swinging the bat and doing everything he needs to be ready for Spring Training in February.
