Pete Crow-Armstrong, the Chicago Cubs’ young center fielder, has swiftly emerged as one of Major League Baseball’s most exciting stars in 2025. This article explores his remarkable rise, standout performance this season, and the impact he is having both offensively and defensively for the Cubs.
Soaring Performance in 2025
Pete Crow-Armstrong’s 2025 campaign has been nothing short of spectacular. After a challenging first half of 2024, where his batting average lagged and his offense struggled to ignite, Crow-Armstrong entered the current season with renewed confidence and skill. This transformation has been evident through his impressive stats: as of August 2025, he boasts a .264 batting average, 27 home runs, 78 RBIs, and 29 stolen bases. His combination of power and speed has placed him in the esteemed 25-25 club, a rare achievement in MLB where a player collects at least 25 home runs and 25 stolen bases. Notably, Pete became the first player in MLB history to reach 25 home runs, 25 stolen bases, and 70 RBIs before the All-Star break, setting records with his offensive production.
His breakout at the plate started mid-season, marked by a .959 OPS since April 13 that features all 19 of his home runs and 17 stolen bases. Crow-Armstrong evolved into a clutch hitter, hitting .342 with runners in scoring position and commanding varied spots in the batting order, from leadoff to cleanup. Despite relatively limited starts against left-handed pitching, his overall offensive output and base-running threat make him a core asset for the Cubs.
Defensive Excellence and Overall Impact
Beyond his bat, Pete Crow-Armstrong shines in center field, where his defense has been described as near flawless. He leads all MLB outfielders in Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) with an elite total of 15, showing his exceptional ability to prevent runs and contribute defensively. His speed and instincts allow him to track down fly balls and shut down base hits that might otherwise turn into extra bases for opponents. Additionally, his arm strength ranks among the top center fielders, enabling him to deter baserunners effectively.
His defensive prowess combined with his offensive surge has put him firmly in the National League MVP conversation. Managers and baseball analysts alike praise his all-around game, energy, and consistency on the field. Crow-Armstrong’s achievements also echo in Cubs history, where he joined legendary figures like Ryne Sandberg and Sammy Sosa as one of the only players to record a 25-25 season with the franchise.
As a 23-year-old, Crow-Armstrong’s rapid development establishes him not only as a cornerstone for the Cubs but also as a player to watch league-wide. His emerging leadership, dynamic skill set, and record-setting pace underscore a truly breakthrough season.
In summary, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s 2025 season showcases a meteoric rise from a defensive prospect to a formidable two-way player excelling at both offense and defense. His unique blend of power, speed, and fielding excellence has rewritten record books and propelled the Chicago Cubs into contention. As the season progresses, Crow-Armstrong’s continued impact will be central to the team’s success and MLB’s narrative, making him a definitive star in the game’s present and future.
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