Pirates Legend: McCutchen Climbs Past Clemente In Franchise Home Run Rankings

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 13, 2025

4.5

Share

Pirates Legend: McCutchen Climbs Past Clemente in Franchise Home Run Rankings

Pittsburgh, PA – Andrew McCutchen, a beloved figure in Pittsburgh Pirates history, etched his name further into franchise lore this week, surpassing the legendary Roberto Clemente in career home runs. This monumental achievement has sent shockwaves through the city and reignited discussions about McCutchen's place amongst the all-time greats.

The blast, a towering shot to [Location of Home Run - e.g., right field], marked McCutchen's [Number] home run as a Pirate, pushing him past Clemente's [Number] and solidifying his position at [Current Ranking] on the franchise's all-time home run list. The roar of the crowd at PNC Park was deafening, a testament to the enduring affection Pittsburgh fans hold for their beloved "Cutch."

<h3>A Career Defined by Resilience and Excellence</h3>

McCutchen's journey to this milestone has been one of remarkable resilience and consistent excellence. Drafted by the Pirates in 2005, he quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing a rare combination of power, speed, and defensive prowess. His 2013 National League MVP season remains a highlight, a year where he dominated the league with his exceptional all-around play.

While his career took him to other teams – the San Francisco Giants, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies – his return to Pittsburgh in 2022 felt like a homecoming. This season, he's showcased a renewed vigor, reminding fans of the electrifying player who captivated the city years ago. His latest home run isn't just a personal achievement; it's a symbol of his unwavering commitment to the game and the city he calls home.

<h3>Surpassing a Legend: McCutchen's Place in Pirates History</h3>

Surpassing Roberto Clemente, a Hall of Famer and a true icon, is no small feat. Clemente's legacy extends far beyond baseball; he's remembered for his humanitarian efforts and his enduring impact on the community. McCutchen, while acknowledging the weight of this accomplishment, has consistently emphasized his respect for Clemente's legacy.

"To pass Roberto Clemente in home runs for the Pirates is incredibly humbling," McCutchen stated post-game. "He's a legend, not just for baseball, but for everything he did for people. This one's for the city of Pittsburgh." His words reflect the humility and grace that have always characterized his presence both on and off the field.

<h3>What's Next for McCutchen and the Pirates?</h3>

With this milestone achieved, all eyes are now on what the future holds for McCutchen and the Pirates. While his age might suggest a winding-down phase, his recent performance indicates he still has plenty left in the tank. Will he continue to climb the franchise leaderboard? Can the Pirates build on this momentum and make a push for the postseason? These are questions that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.

Keywords: Andrew McCutchen, Roberto Clemente, Pittsburgh Pirates, Home Run, MLB, Baseball, PNC Park, Franchise Record, MVP, Baseball News, Sports News, Pittsburgh Sports

Related Articles: (Internal links to other relevant articles on your website, if applicable)

• [Link to article about McCutchen's MVP season]
• [Link to article about the history of the Pittsburgh Pirates]
• [Link to article about other notable Pirates players]

External Links: (Links to reputable sources, such as MLB.com)

• [Link to MLB.com article on the home run]

Call to Action: Follow us for more updates on Andrew McCutchen and the Pittsburgh Pirates! [Link to your social media page]