The immense talent of Pete Crow-Armstrong was on full display during a thrilling game at Wrigley Field on Tuesday night. In the eighth inning, Crow-Armstrong made a spectacular diving catch in left-center field, traversing 69 feet to snag a ball off the bat of the Milwaukee Brewers’ Brice Turang, which had a mere 5% catch probability.
Shortly thereafter, as the crowd of 38,687 erupted in chants of “P-C-A!” the 23-year-old standout stepped into the batter’s box. He launched a first-pitch elevated cutter from Brewers lefty Rob Zastryzny, sending it soaring at 111.5 mph over the right-field video board for a massive 452-foot solo home run, marking his 19th of the season. This hit extended the Cubs’ lead to 5-3, solidifying their position in the division race with a 6½ game advantage over the Brewers.
Manager Craig Counsell expressed the joy of witnessing such performances, aptly noting, “That’s why we come to the ballpark, to see things like that, to see great players do amazing things.” Following the home run, fans began chanting “M-V-P!” as Crow-Armstrong jogged around the bases, a moment he cherished and credited to his former coach Willie Harris, who consistently encouraged him to take time to appreciate the game’s beauty.
With a remarkable 12 outs above average (OAA) ranking him first in the majors, Crow-Armstrong highlighted his improved execution this season compared to last year: “I would say I’m executing better this year… it’s natural at this point.”
The Cubs’ victory was bolstered by a strong showing from the heart of their lineup. Kyle Tucker contributed three hits, including two doubles, and Seiya Suzuki rebounded from earlier strikeouts to deliver a pivotal three-run home run in the fifth inning, pushing the Cubs ahead 4-2. This marked the end of a notable streak where the Cubs had been either trailing or tied at the end of the inning for 36 consecutive innings, the longest since 2003.
Suzuki’s performance also placed him among elite company, as he became the second Cubs player this century to accrue at least 61 RBIs in his first 69 games, joining the ranks of Sammy Sosa.
Right-hander Ben Brown showed strength on the mound, allowing just two runs in five innings while striking out five. His recent performances have built a strong case, recording 53 strikeouts against only nine walks over his last eight outings. As the Cubs anticipate the return of left-hander Shota Imanaga from the injured list, the coaching staff faces the decision of who will make way in the rotation.
Brown acknowledged the uncertainty around roster decisions but remains focused on his contributions to the team: “I’m just grateful to be a part of the team today and just got to keep putting in work to be a part of the team in the future.”
This game not only showcased Crow-Armstrong’s burgeoning talent but also highlighted the collective strength of the Cubs as they drive toward the postseason, leaving fans excited about what lies ahead.