McCutchen is hitless in eight at-bats since returning from the DL, an indication that his timing isn't quite right yet. He saw a team-leading 21 pitches in four at-bats Wednesday but expanded the strike zone in hitter's count to help get himself out. A 96 mph fastball from David Carpenter nearly plunked McCutchen in the ninth inning, but the NL MVP was able twist out of the way without re-injuring himself -- a good sign going forward. McCutchen has 12 homers and a career .936 OPS at Miller Park where Pittsburgh plays its next three games, giving him a chance to get back on track. Since the All-Star break, the center fielder is batting .200/.321/.262 in 78 plate appearances.