Chicago Cubs fans got a glimpse of Pete Crow-Armstrong’s potential when he joined the team in late 2023, but the first half of 2025 exceeded all expectations. With an impressive .265/.302/.544 slash line, 25 home runs, and 27 stolen bases, he emerged as the team’s first homegrown superstar in years, earning an All-Star Game selection and generating buzz in the MVP conversation alongside Shohei Ohtani.
However, the second half of the season presented significant challenges for Crow-Armstrong. His performance dipped, resulting in a 72 wRC+ with just eight stolen bases and six home runs. His batting average and on-base percentage fell to .216 and .262, ultimately dragging his season totals down to .247 and .287, respectively, giving him a 109 wRC+ despite solid slugging at .481. The strikeout rate was manageable at 24%, slightly below league average, but an alarming 41.7% chase rate led to poor contact and limited walks.
Recognizing the areas for improvement, Crow-Armstrong remains focused on enhancing his batting average and on-base percentage ahead of the 2026 season. During a recent chat with 670 the Score at Cubs Convention, he expressed confidence in his ability to reach a .290 batting average while aiming to boost his on-base percentage. “It’s all about getting back to my roots as a ballplayer while still keeping the power I flashed in 2025,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to refining his skills.
Fans eager for Crow-Armstrong to improve his swing decisions may find his plans reassuring. His minor league numbers, particularly during his last full season in 2023 when he posted a .283/.365/.511 line and a considerably higher walk rate, indicate that he has the ability to excel. Adapting to Major League Baseball’s talent level has posed challenges, especially evident during the postseason.
If Crow-Armstrong can merge the on-base skills he showcased in the minors with the power that signaled a promising 30-30 season, he could become one of baseball’s most valuable players. Developing such a skill set in just one offseason is a formidable task, but his youth and other contributions can still add significant value to the Cubs.
The Cubs’ offense provides a supportive environment for Crow-Armstrong’s growth. Although Kyle Tucker has departed, he has been replaced by Alex Bregman, who had a solid season slashing .273/.360/.462 with a 125 wRC+ in 114 games for the Red Sox last year. Bregman is recognized for his leadership, making a substantial impact on younger players, and he quickly connected with Crow-Armstrong, instilling confidence.
With a solid team structure surrounding him, Crow-Armstrong is well-positioned to achieve his goals for the upcoming 2026 season. His dedication to improving could yield significant benefits for the Cubs as he embraces his role as the face of the franchise.