Bucs’ McCutchen benched for play

Associated Press

PITTSBURGH

Andrew McCutchen got a day off — even before the rest of his Pittsburgh Pirates teammates were given one, too.

McCutchen’s lack of hustle during a loss to the Dodgers on Wednesday earned him a spot on the bench for Thursday’s game that was later postponed after the rain came in the top of the third inning with the Dodgers up 1-0.

No makeup date was announced.

Manager Clint Hurdle opted to sit the promising 24-year-old for failing to run to first following a dropped third strike in the eighth inning of a 2-0 loss. McCutchen struck out swinging to lead off the inning and the ball squirted a few feet away from Rod Barajas, who had little trouble locating it and throwing to first for the out. McCutchen was still near the batter’s box when the ball was thrown.

“I know our players clearly understand what’s important to me and as we create an identity on who we are, what we are, what kind of team, there’s certain things that need to be done,” Hurdle said.

Giving maximum effort at all times chief among them. Hurdle and McCutchen spoke Thursday afternoon and Hurdle considers it a lesson learned.

McCutchen will return to the lineup tonight when the Pirates play in Milwaukee. His seven home runs lead the team.

Xavier Paul took over McCutchen’s spot in center and batted leadoff, though Hurdle said McCutchen would have been available to pinch hit.

McCutchen said he understood the decision, also saying “it’s a lesson learned.”