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Washington Nationals: Storylines to finish the regular season

By Ron Juckett

PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 26: Bryce Harper #34 of the Washington Nationals reacts to striking out against the Philadelphia Phillies during the third inning of a game at Citizens Bank Park on September 26, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies defeated the Nationals 4-1. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - SEPTEMBER 26: Bryce Harper #34 of the Washington Nationals reacts to striking out against the Philadelphia Phillies during the third inning of a game at Citizens Bank Park on September 26, 2017 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Phillies defeated the Nationals 4-1. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images) /
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MCCUTCHEN SWAN SONG

Across the dugout, this is shaping up to be Andrew McCutchen’s last games with the Pirates.

The resurgence of the Buccos in Pittsburgh starts with him. Three straight postseasons, five consecutive All-Star appearances and the 2013 NL Most Valuable Player award highlight McCutchen’s incredible career.

Nearly traded to the Nats last winter before Washington grabbed Adam Eaton from the Chicago White Sox, the Pirates hold his 2018 option. But, cost-containing Pittsburgh will shop him around again this offseason as free agency looms around the corner.

Although Washington’s interest is low with the bumper crop of outfielders, there are teams willing to meet the Pirates high asking price. McCutchen is a class act. If he moves this winter away from the National League, he will be missed here in DC.

For Pittsburgh, he has played better this year. McCutchen leads the team with 28 home runs and is tied with Josh Bell at 87 RBI. His OPS+ of 122 also leads the Pirates.

However this saga ends for both sides, here is hoping it resolves quickly and whether McCutchen stays in Pittsburgh for now or leaves, his status as an Iron City legend will not diminish. Hopefully, they extend him and settle this once and for all.

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