In the dynamic world of Major League Baseball, where young talent constantly emerges, Pete Crow-Armstrong has rapidly become a name synonymous with high potential and exciting play. Born on March 25, 2002, in Sherman Oaks, California, Pete Henry Crow-Armstrong, often referred to as PCA, is more than just a promising outfielder for the Chicago Cubs. He’s a blend of athletic prowess, baseball acumen, and a pedigree that hints at a bright future in the sport. This article delves into the career trajectory of Pete Crow-Armstrong, exploring his journey from a highly touted high school prospect to a key player for the Cubs, addressing the questions that fans and analysts alike are asking.
A Lineage Rooted in the Arts, Destined for the Diamond
While Pete Crow-Armstrong has carved his own path in the baseball world, his family background is steeped in the arts. His parents, Matthew John Armstrong and Ashley Crow, are both established actors. Interestingly, his mother even played a role in the classic baseball movie “Little Big League,” which Pete has mentioned as his favorite film, a charming connection between his family’s profession and his own passion. This unique upbringing might have provided a different perspective on performance and pressure, qualities that are undoubtedly valuable in the high-stakes environment of professional sports.
Pete’s athletic talents were evident early on. He honed his skills at Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles, a program known for producing notable MLB players like Jack Flaherty, Max Fried, and Lucas Giolito. During his time there, Crow-Armstrong blossomed into a standout player. In 2019, his amateur career gained significant momentum when he was named the Los Angeles Times Player of the Year and participated in the prestigious Under Armour All-America Baseball Game. These accolades solidified his status as one of the top high school prospects in the 2020 MLB Draft class.
From Top Prospect to Cubs’ Centerpiece: The Draft and Trade
Entering the 2020 MLB Draft, Pete Crow-Armstrong was highly regarded for his well-rounded skillset. The New York Mets selected him in the first round with the 19th overall pick, a testament to his perceived potential. He signed with the Mets for a reported signing bonus of $3,359,000. However, his professional debut with the St. Lucie Mets in the Low-A Southeast League in 2021 was unfortunately cut short after just six games due to a torn labrum in his right (non-throwing) shoulder, requiring season-ending surgery.
Despite the setback, Crow-Armstrong’s talent remained evident, and he became a key piece in a significant trade. In July 2021, the Mets traded him to the Chicago Cubs along with pitcher Trevor Williams in exchange for shortstop Javier Báez and pitcher Jake Marisnick. This move proved to be a pivotal moment in Crow-Armstrong’s career, placing him within a Cubs organization that was actively rebuilding and looking for future cornerstones.
Minor League Ascendancy: Flashing the Five Tools
Following the trade, Pete Crow-Armstrong quickly ascended through the Cubs’ minor league system, showcasing the “five-tool” potential that made him a first-round pick. These five tools are generally recognized as hitting for average, hitting for power, running ability, fielding ability, and arm strength.
Hitting for Average: Crow-Armstrong possesses a quick left-handed swing and a mature approach at the plate, allowing him to consistently spray line drives across the field. His ability to make contact and get on base is a valuable asset.
Hitting for Power: While initially projected as having average raw power, Crow-Armstrong has made adjustments to his swing that have allowed him to tap into more power potential. He now exhibits the ability to launch and pull the ball with greater ease, hinting at the possibility of hitting 20 or more home runs annually.
Running Ability: Speed is a significant part of Crow-Armstrong’s game. He possesses plus speed and excellent baserunning instincts. This allows him to steal bases effectively and cover significant ground in the outfield. In his minor league career, he demonstrated his prowess on the basepaths, stealing 81 bases in 240 games.
Fielding Ability: Defense is arguably Crow-Armstrong’s standout tool. He is considered an elite center fielder with Gold Glove potential. His exceptional speed, quick reads, and instincts allow him to cover tremendous ground from gap to gap. He also possesses solid arm strength, rounding out his defensive capabilities. Scouting reports consistently grade his fielding as a 70 or even an 80 on the 20-80 scouting scale, indicating top-of-the-scale ability.
Arm Strength: While perhaps not his most dominant tool, Crow-Armstrong has a solid and accurate throwing arm, crucial for making plays from the outfield and preventing runners from advancing.
His breakout 2022 season across Low-A Myrtle Beach and High-A South Bend provided a glimpse of his immense potential. In 101 games, he combined to hit .312 with 20 doubles, 10 triples, 16 home runs, 61 RBIs, and 32 stolen bases, posting an impressive .896 OPS. This performance solidified his status as one of the top prospects in the Cubs’ organization and across all of baseball.
Major League Debut and Early Impressions
The anticipation surrounding Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Major League debut reached its peak in September 2023. He made his debut on September 11, 2023, against the Colorado Rockies, entering the game as a pinch-runner in the 7th inning. He played in 13 games to finish the season, gaining valuable experience at the highest level and showcasing his speed with two stolen bases.
His first full season in the majors came in 2024, where he appeared in 123 games for the Cubs. While his offensive numbers were not spectacular, he batted .237 with 10 home runs and 27 stolen bases, his defensive brilliance was immediately apparent. He recorded impressive defensive metrics, including +14 Outs Above Average (OAA) and +11 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS), ranking among the top outfielders in the league in these categories. His 27 stolen bases also ranked third among Major League rookies.
The beginning of the 2025 season has seen further development in Crow-Armstrong’s game. Through his first 34 games, he is hitting a solid .272 with 9 home runs and 12 stolen bases, demonstrating a significant step forward in his offensive production. His OPS of .867 in this early stretch indicates a growing confidence and impact at the plate, complementing his already elite defense.
Scouting Report: A Glimpse into the Future
Scouting reports on Pete Crow-Armstrong consistently highlight his exceptional defensive abilities in center field, projecting him as a potential Gold Glove winner. His speed and instincts allow him to cover vast amounts of ground, and his arm strength is considered solid. Offensively, he is praised for his hitting approach and ability to spray line drives. While his power was initially seen as average, his recent development suggests the potential for above-average home run production. His baserunning is also considered a plus, utilizing his speed and savvy to steal bases effectively. Overall, he is seen as a potential top-of-the-order hitter who can contribute significantly on both sides of the ball. Some scouting comparisons have drawn parallels to former Cubs center fielder Albert Almora, but with a left-handed bat and the expectation of being a better hitter.
Contract Status and Future Potential
As of May 5, 2025, Pete Crow-Armstrong is under a one-year pre-arbitration contract with the Chicago Cubs for $771,000 for the 2025 season. Given his exceptional defensive skills and developing offensive game, he is undoubtedly a player the Cubs envision as a long-term cornerstone of their team. Recent reports indicate that the Cubs have even approached Crow-Armstrong with a contract extension offer worth approximately $75 million, although an agreement has not yet been reached. This significant offer underscores the organization’s belief in his potential to become a perennial All-Star. While his offensive statistics are still developing, his elite defense and baserunning provide a high floor, making him a valuable asset even as he continues to refine his hitting. If he can consistently produce offensively at the level he has shown in the early part of the 2025 season, his value will skyrocket.
Fan Engagement and Social Media
Beyond his on-field performance, Pete Crow-Armstrong is also connecting with fans. He has made appearances on podcasts and in video series, offering insights into his game and personality. While he maintains a professional presence, his engagement helps build his connection with the Cubs fanbase. He also has endorsement deals with brands like Adidas and Bat Wrap Co., further raising his profile. While specific details of his social media activity weren’t prominent in the search results, his growing presence in the baseball world suggests an increasing engagement in this area.
Highlights and Videos: The Excitement on Display
A quick search for Pete Crow-Armstrong highlights reveals a player who is electrifying to watch. His defensive plays in center field are often spectacular, showcasing his incredible speed and range. Diving catches, accurate throws, and his ability to make difficult plays look routine are hallmarks of his game. Offensively, recent highlights feature powerful home runs and aggressive baserunning, demonstrating the development of his all-around game. Videos of his MLB debut, key defensive plays from the 2024 season, and his offensive outbursts in the 2025 season are readily available for fans to witness his talent. Notably, in early May 2025, he had a game where he hit two home runs, including a three-run shot, further highlighting his offensive potential.
FAQs
Who is Pete Crow-Armstrong?
Pete Crow-Armstrong is a professional baseball outfielder for the Chicago Cubs. Born on March 25, 2002, in Sherman Oaks, California, he was drafted 19th overall by the New York Mets in the 2020 MLB Draft and later traded to the Cubs in July 2021 in exchange for Javier Báez and Trevor Williams.
When did Pete Crow-Armstrong make his MLB debut?
PCA made his Major League debut on September 11, 2023, against the Colorado Rockies. He entered the game as a pinch runner and made his first start the following day in center field.
What are Pete Crow-Armstrong’s MLB stats as of May 2025?
As of May 4, 2025, PCA has a career batting average of .239, with 19 home runs, 74 RBIs, and 41 stolen bases.
How did Pete Crow-Armstrong perform in his rookie season?
In 2024, PCA played 123 games, batting .237 with 10 home runs, 47 RBIs, and 27 stolen bases. His six triples tied for the most by a Cub, and his 90.0% stolen base success rate led all MLB rookies with at least 20 attempts.
What is Pete Crow-Armstrong’s jersey number, and why did he change it?
PCA switched from jersey number 52 to 4 before the 2025 season. The change was influenced by a friendly basketball shooting contest with Cubs president Jed Hoyer, who suggested a “fast-guy number” would suit him better.
What are Pete Crow-Armstrong’s strengths as a player?
PCA is renowned for his elite defense in center field, earning an 80-grade fielding rating from MLB Pipeline. He also possesses 60-grade speed, making him a significant threat on the bases and a key contributor to the Cubs’ aggressive base-running strategy.
Has Pete Crow-Armstrong received any notable awards or honors?
Yes, PCA has an impressive list of accolades, including:
MiLB Defensive Player of the Year (2023)
2× All-Star Futures Game selection (2022, 2023)
Rawlings MiLB Gold Glove Award (2022)
Midwest League champion (2022)
U-18 Baseball World Cup All-World Team (2019)
What is Pete Crow-Armstrong’s background?
PCA grew up in Sherman Oaks, California, and played Little League in the Sherman Oaks Little League. His parents, Matthew John Armstrong and Ashley Crow, are both actors.
How did Pete Crow-Armstrong get his first MLB hit?
On April 25, 2024, PCA hit a go-ahead two-run home run against the Houston Astros, marking his first Major League hit. The homer came off a 95 mph fastball from reliever Bryan Abreu and was a significant moment in his early MLB career.
To conclude
Pete Crow-Armstrong’s journey from a first-round draft pick to a key player for the Chicago Cubs is a testament to his talent, resilience, and dedication to the game. Despite facing challenges, including a significant shoulder injury early in his career, PCA has demonstrated remarkable growth and adaptability.
His defensive prowess in center field is already drawing comparisons to some of the game’s greats, and his speed on the bases adds a dynamic element to the Cubs’ lineup. Offensively, while there is room for improvement, his clutch performances and ability to deliver in critical moments have made him a fan favorite.
As the Cubs continue to develop their young talent, PCA stands out as a cornerstone for the franchise’s future. His combination of athleticism, baseball IQ, and work ethic suggests that he will be an integral part of the team’s success in the coming years.
For fans and analysts alike, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s career will be one to watch closely, as he has the potential to become one of the premier outfielders in Major League Baseball.
To read more , click here
