While chasing his dream to play in the big leagues, Pittsburgh Pirates centerfielder Andrew McCutchen always remembered his father’s admonition to keep God as “the main thing.” Now the 36-year-old All-Star, who began his Major League career with the Pirates, is thanking God for bringing him back to Pittsburgh.
McCutchen, known as “Cutch,” returned to the Pirates after signing a one-year, $5 million contract in January. The outspoken Christian wears a cross on his armband as well as cross earrings. “This game is amazing, and it is important,” McCutchen said on a 2019 episode of the Sports Spectrum podcast. “But God is more important than the game.”
Andrew McCutchen Knows All Gifts Come From God
In an article for Guideposts.org, Andrew McCutchen wrote about how his faith has helped him cope with the ups and downs of pro sports. He never wanted to let down his parents, who had him when they were in high school and worked to keep him on the right path. McCutchen’s dad became a youth counselor and minister, and his mom sang in the church choir.
Although his parents “couldn’t afford to send me to travel games,” McCutchen recalled how they supported his talents and dreams. “God is all you need,” his dad told him. “All your gifts are gifts from him.” McCutchen said his father also reminded him often about Romans 8:28, that “All things work together for good to those who love God.”
Deciding to get baptized at age 16 is “where I felt I really had my own relationship with Jesus,” McCutchen told Sports Spectrum. “It wasn’t something that was just taught to me or something that was forced upon me. It was actually my own decision.”
‘Struggles Can Be Our Greatest Blessings’
During his lengthy MLB career, which has included stints with San Francisco, the New York Yankees, Philadelphia, and Milwaukee, Andrew McCutchen has racked up many accomplishments and accolades. The centerfielder made five All-Star appearances and has won the National League MVP award, a Gold Glove, four Silver Slugger awards, and the 2015 Roberto Clemente Award for community service and sportsmanship.
Despite career slumps and injuries, McCutchen knows that one thing never changes: Jesus’ love for him. “It doesn’t matter how well I do or how bad I do,” said the athlete. “His love for me never, never changes, and it never will.”
After an ACL tear sidelined McCutchen during the 2019 season, he found special meaning in Romans 8:28. Looking back, he said he cherishes the time he had with family because of that injury.
