The ovations were louder for Andrew McCutchen than usual over the weekend.

The Pittsburgh Pirates' designated hitter always gets a warm ovation when he steps into the batter's box at PNC Park. The 38-year-old designated hitter lives in Pittsburgh year-round and is a franchise icon after leading the Pirates to their last three postseason berths from 2013-15.

However, there was a feeling during the three-game series with the Athletics that McCutchen's second stint with the Pirates might be close to being over. The third of three straight one-year, $5-million contracts that McCutchen has signed with the Pirates expires at the end of the season.

McCutchen still wants to play next season. The 17-year veteran has made that clear for a couple of months.

McCutchen addressed the situation on Sunday after going 1 for 4 in the Pirates' 11-0 victory that enabled them to take two of three games from the Athletics.

"We'll see what happens," McCutchen said. "Obviously, a lot of that stuff is out of my control, so I just need to do my part. I do want to continue playing, so wherever that may be. I'm looking forward to seeing where the offseason takes me. We'll move on from there. I've got six games left, so I'll try to finish the season strong."

It is interesting to note that McCutchen left an opening to sign with a team other than the Pirates. When he returned to the franchise before the 2023 season, he made it clear he wanted to finish his career in Pittsburgh.

However, the Pirates are going to finish last in the National League Central and haven't had a winning record since 2017, the last season of his first stint with them. A World Series ring is about the only thing missing on a resume that includes the 2013 NL MVP award.

McCutchen has also played just seven games in the outfield this season and none since May 12. The Pirates may want more flexibility in the DH slot in 2026.

If the fans had it their way, McCutchen would stay with the Pirates until he retires.