Highly respected writer Jon Heyman of SI.com reported yesterday that the Pirates are insisting on a at least a five year deal in extension talks with Andrew McCutchen to by-pass at least a year of McCutchen’s free agency years.
However, the chances of such a deal (5 years or more) happening are considered slim unless McCutchen goes against his agent Steve Hammond.
Hammond I’m told is warning McCutchen about such a deal, and Hammond is widely known for being a strong advocate for his clients not sacrificing potential salary for immediate security.
The Pirates own McCutchen rights for the 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 seasons.
He is scheduled to hit free agency for the first time following the 2015 season.
McCutchen, 24, is hitting .242 with 7 home runs and 19 RBI’s on the season. Despite an up and down season, McCutchen is on pace for a career high 32 home runs.