For at least the last three weeks or so, the Atlanta Braves offense has been absolutely dreadful. Their power numbers have been among the worst in the league during this stretch, and it is not a coincidence that once Atlanta stopped hitting, the Braves stopped winning. In particular, the offense has had little answer if the opposing team just keeps throwing left-handed pitchers up on the mound. However, the Braves just made a signing that could help with that lineup balance problem in addition to other, less tangible benefits.
Right now, the Braves are flat. The same energy that made everyone believe that Atlanta was never out of a game just isn't there. In an effort to not only bolster the Braves' outfield with a right-handed bat, but to also bring in a respected veteran voice, Atlanta just signed Andrew McCutchen to a minor league deal according to their transactions log.
There you go. Andrew McCutchen was released by Texas on May 28. Would expect him to go to Gwinnett after he gets up to speed in Florida. https://t.co/LVUbDQBv92
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) July 3, 2026
Braves bring in Andrew McCutchen in latest attempt to catch lightning in a bottle
Look, this is not the McCutchen that many of us remember as one of the most dangerous hitters in baseball. The guy is almost 40 years old and posted a .537 OPS in 83 plate appearances with the Rangers earlier this season before he was released. If you think Atlanta just signed their clean-up hitter for the rest of the season in McCutchen, we admire your optimism.
However, that doesn't mean that signing McCutchen won't help. As recently as last year, McCutchen still hits lefties pretty well, and he still draws plenty of walks. For a lineup that could use guys that can keep the line moving, McCutchen could be that sort of support player at this stage of his career. Given that he is signed on a minor league deal, the risk is basically zero, and the Braves can always cut bait quickly if need be. It isn't like McCutchen hasn't been one of the Braves' best alternatives ever since Jurickson Profar got suspended.
More importantly, McCutchen is one of the most respected veterans in all of baseball. Even if his stay with the Braves is short, he is definitely a guy that could provide great advice and leadership in Atlanta's clubhouse. This Braves team needs a fire lit under them, and McCutchen could be really helpful in making that happen, even if his best playing days are well behind him.
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