MLB Twitter reacts to Andrew McCutchen hitting his first home run back with Pittsburgh Pirates: "Makes a grown man cry" "We’re so back"

After six years away from the Pittsburgh Pirates, Andrew McCutchen is back in the black and gold, hitting home runs in spring training. McCutchen's return to the Pirates made sense from both a narrative and baseball perspective. He is one of the most beloved players in team history and should still be able to contribute at a high level. Which is exactly what this home run helped to prove.

McCutchen is a former MVP and has been selected to the All-Star team five times. He is no longer the young up-and-comer that he was on the Pirates last time around; he is now the seasoned veteran. His wealth of experience should help the young team come into their own.

He proved he still has a lot left in the tank by smashing this home run, posted to Twitter by the Pittsburgh Pirates.

McCutchen may be entering his 15th MLB season, but this home run against the Philadelphia Phillies shows he's still got power. Veteran sluggers are often able to maintain their power swing longer than any other form of offense as their career marches on. The Pirates have not had a winning season since 2015, and McCutchen certainly wants to change that.

Many fans hope that Andrew McCutchen will be able to mentor and help coach the Pittsburgh Pirates' blossoming star, Oneil Cruz. Cruz has shown flashes of incredible talent and physical tools, but hasn't put it all together. If the veteran can help the young phenom find consistency, his legacy in Pittsburgh will only grow.

Pittsburgh Pirates fans have not had much to cheer about in the last seven or eight years, so the return of a fan favorite is more than welcome. McCutchen's years with the Phillies and Milwaukee Brewers never felt the same as when he was a Pirate.

As the Pirates prepare for opening day, they are relieved to see their veteran still swinging for the fences.

What would make 2023 a success for Andrew McCutchen and the Pittsburgh Pirates?

Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Miami Marlins

The Pirates are not a team that will steal the division crown away from the St. Louis Cardinals. Nor will they be competing for a playoff spot, barring a miracle. However, if their young players show growth and promise, the season will be a success. They simply need to show improvement.

For Andrew McCutchen, he hopes to prove he still brings a lot to the table and can help a young team. Fans have no doubt he will reach those goals.