Cutch shows vintage form at plate, in field

LOS ANGELES — While Andrew McCutchen has been mired in a prolonged slump and the Pirates hovered just out of the Wild Card picture, one optimistic thought prevailed: If McCutchen gets back on track, he’s capable of almost single-handedly pushing Pittsburgh back into the postseason.

That may be a tall order, but it played out Friday night at Dodger Stadium. McCutchen homered to the opposite field, pulled an RBI single to left, stole a base and made a highlight-reel grab in center, turning in a fine all-around game in a 5-1 win that pulled the Pirates within one game of the second National League Wild Card spot.

It’s unfair to assume one night might signal the start of a turnaround. McCutchen has had strong games and solid stretches throughout an overall disappointing offensive season. McCutchen’s third-inning home run off Ross Stripling, however, could bode well for the former MVP.

“There’s nothing like being able to do that, drive a ball to the opposite side, and to be able to do it with some authority is always good,” McCutchen said. “It …

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