The Chicago Cubs overcame previous offensive difficulties in Minneapolis by scoring eight runs on 14 hits, overpowering the Minnesota Twins 8-1 at Target Field. Pete Crow-Armstrong powered the attack with his fifth multi-home run game of the season, marking a key factor in the Cubs securing a decisive win.
Crow-Armstrong Sparks Early Scoring Amid Initial Slow Start
The game began with little action offensively, as the Cubs failed to score in the first inning despite a single from Seiya Suzuki. Cubs pitcher Colin Rea dominated the Twins’ lineup in the bottom half, setting the stage for Chicago’s lineup to come alive in the subsequent innings. Dansby Swanson’s double and Nico Hoerner’s follow-up single quickly put the Cubs on the board in the second inning.
Chicago extended their lead in the third when Kyle Tucker hit a one-out double. Following a popout by Suzuki, Crow-Armstrong delivered his first home run of the evening, a powerful shot that energized the Cubs and increased their lead to 3-0.
Consistent Cubs Offense Continues to Build Lead Through the Middle Innings
The Cubs maintained pressure in the fourth inning as Carson Kelly doubled and advanced to third on a single by Hoerner. Matt Shaw contributed by sending Kelly home with a sacrifice fly, adding another run. The offense persisted into the fifth inning, with Suzuki belting his second single of the night and Crow-Armstrong drawing a walk.
Michael Busch produced a timely single to bring in Kelly, while Crow-Armstrong took third on the hit and soon scored the Cubs’ sixth run on a Swanson single. Chicago’s lineup showcased their depth and ability to string hits together effectively in this dominant performance.
Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Historic Power Display Approaches Franchise Milestones
Crow-Armstrong capped the scoring with his second home run during the fifth inning, further solidifying the Cubs’ commanding 8-1 advantage. This second homer tied a record held by Ron Santo, who hit 25 home runs at age 23 during the 1963 season. Crow-Armstrong now stands just one short of Kris Bryant’s franchise record of 26 home runs in a single season, set in 2015.
Pete Crow-Armstrong’s second homer tied Ron Santo’s total of 25 in his age-23 season, 1963.
PCA is one behind Kris Bryant’s franchise record of 26, in 2015.
Billy Williams hit 21, in 1961; Ernie Banks, 19, in 1954; and Vic Saier and Anthony Rizzo, 18, in 1914 and 2013, respectively.
—JohnW53, Baseball Chat Board Contributor
This impressive company includes legendary Cubs like Billy Williams and Ernie Banks, underscoring Crow-Armstrong’s exceptional performance this season.
Strong Pitching and Defense Support Chicago’s Commanding Victory
While the Cubs’ offense excelled, Colin Rea delivered a solid outing on the mound for Chicago. Aside from giving up a solo home run to Kody Clemens in the fifth inning, Rea effectively controlled the Twins’ hitters. His performance was aided by outstanding defensive plays, including key stops by Hoerner and Swanson, that helped maintain the Cubs’ dominance throughout the contest.
Implications for Cubs’ Momentum Moving Forward
This victory at Target Field offers the Cubs a renewed sense of confidence after struggling offensively earlier in the series. Pete Crow-Armstrong’s continued power surge highlights his growing impact on the team’s success, and Chicago’s combination of hitting, pitching, and defense positions them well for upcoming games. Maintaining this form could be crucial for the Cubs as they look to improve their standing this season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Pete Crow-Armstrong’s real name?
A. Pete Henry Crow-Armstrong, born on March 25, 2002, is known as “PCA.” He plays professional baseball as an outfielder for the Chicago Cubs in Major League Baseball (MLB). He began his MLB career in 2023. He is from Sherman Oaks, California, USA.