As the MLB season progresses, one player who has emerged as a standout in the National League is Pete Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs’ centerfielder. With impressive metrics, Crow-Armstrong leads in Wins Above Replacement (WAR), boasting a remarkable fWAR of 3.6 and bWAR of 3.8. At this point in the season, he is hitting a solid .281/.313/.562, with 15 home runs, 21 stolen bases, and 51 runs batted in, placing him in early discussions for the MVP title.
While his batting and fielding skills have drawn attention, it’s his exceptional baserunning and speed that have contributed to some extraordinary moments on the field. A recent game showcased Crow-Armstrong’s ability to disrupt defensive plays. In a particular instance, his presence on third base caused confusion for the opposing team, which resulted in an out transforming into a baserunner due to the pressure he exerted.
A particularly unique moment occurred during the same game when Crow-Armstrong took a walk, placing him on second base with the bases loaded. He utilized his speed to distract the pitcher, leading to an unexpected pitchout with the bases loaded—a rare occurrence in baseball today. Pitchouts have become increasingly infrequent in modern games due to analytics suggesting that the risk often doesn’t justify the reward.
This play reflects Crow-Armstrong’s strategic awareness and agility, especially considering the dynamics of having a strong contact hitter like Nico Hoerner at the plate. It raises questions among fans—how often do we witness such a scenario? While the outcomes are disposable in nature, the essence of the game thrives on such exhilarating moments.
Fans are left in anticipation of what Crow-Armstrong will do next, as he consistently puts himself in the spotlight, showcasing not just raw talent, but a strategic understanding of the game that can lead to more remarkable plays throughout the season.