Nate McLouth's celebrated return to the organization that spawned him to a 2008 All Star Game appearance and a chance at big league glory lasted all of 44 games. The Pirates - desperate to awaken from a season-long team-wide batting slump - designated McLouth for assignment today. The Pirates gave McLouth a chance to take his troubles to Indianapolis in an attempt to change his fortunes, but McLouth has decided to part ways with the organization.
This was a tough call for the Bucs, who fully understood the commitment the outfielder felt for the franchise. After being re-signed in the offseason, McLouth did several interviews where he reiterated his desire to be a Pirate and how he never wanted to play anywhere else. The Pirates traded McLouth to Atlanta in June 2009 in a deal that netted the Bucs SP Charlie Morton and OF Gorkys Hernandez. McLouth never seemed to find his way with the Braves, and lasted only three injury filled seasons before the team declined his option last winter. The deal that sent McLouth to the Braves initially was used to open a roster spot for rookie OF Andrew McCutchen, who has since become of the best players in the game.
The odds are now against McLouth to make it back to the major leagues. He has seemingly lost his way as a hitter, and will need a team to give him an opportunity to work out his issues. Why he declined the trip to AAA offered by the Bucs is unknown, since after hitting .140 and going hitless in his final 20 at-bats, the best he will be offered is the same chance with another club.
We hope that Nate McLouth finds his way. He is a genuine guy who loved Pittsburgh and always wanted to be here. While things didn't work out the way we all thought it would, McLouth is still a tough guy to root against. It will be interesting to see what direction his career heads now, as he has officially hit the low mark of his seven year career.
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