The Pittsburgh Pirates continue to explore trade scenarios involving Andrew McCutchen.

McCutchen is coming off his worst offensive season and a below-average one defensively, according to the advanced metrics. 

McCutchen is signed for $14 million in 2017 with a $14.5 million club option for 2018.

The Washington Nationals remain interested in McCutchen while the Texas Rangers are another potential trade partner.

Dexter Fowler, Ian Desmond and Carlos Gomez are the most prominent center fielders available in free agency.

The Pirates could re-allocate payroll to other areas while also enabling them to move Starling Marte from left to center.

Jeff Passan echoed Ken Rosenthal's report.