Cutch recounts feel-good moment with fans

PITTSBURGH — In today’s world of viral videos, what might be an otherwise innocuous moment noticed by a few observers can, for better or for worse, turn into much more.

Such was the case for Andrew McCutchen and four very loyal Pirates fans, who last summer in San Diego unknowingly became part of one of the most heart-warming stories of the season. A simple exchange between the star Pirates outfielder and the McCreary family, arguably his most loyal West Coast fans, was caught on camera, swept through social media on a digital tidal wave and became one of those feel-good moments that fans from coast to coast couldn’t seem to get enough of.

• Cast your Esurance All-Star ballot for McCutchen and other #ASGWorthy players

All because of a couple of batting gloves, a fist bump and one very emphatic “I love you man” exclamation by an overwhelmed 12-year-old.

“It was the least I could do — just show my appreciation,” McCutchen said. “I didn’t think much of it. It’s awesome just to be able to interact with the fans.”

• McCutchen gives his batting gloves to adorable fans

The moment happened less than a minute after the Pirates secured a 5-2 win over the Padres last May 30 at Petco Park. Having noticed the McCreary foursome decked out in Pirates gear and waving their Jolly Roger flag, McCutchen raced back to the outfield wall and handed his batting gloves to the two kids who had been loudly cheering him throughout the game.

The cameras caught a joyous 12-year-old Christopher McCreary and his 8-year-old brother, Elijah, overcome with joy. Christopher pointed at McCutchen and yelled, “I love you man, I love you.” And just like that, GIF-able history was born.

The exchange was shared thousands of times …

continue reading in source mlb.mlb.com