Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong made history by becoming one of only three MLB players to hit 25 home runs and steal 25 bases before the All-Star break. This remarkable achievement was reached during the Cubs’ 8-1 victory over the Minnesota Twins on Thursday, highlighting Crow-Armstrong’s exceptional performance this season. Jack Flaherty praises Pete Crow-Armstrong for this milestone, recognizing the rare talent displayed by the young center fielder.
Pete Crow-Armstrong Joins Elite Company with 25-25 Milestone
During the Cubs’ win, Crow-Armstrong hit two home runs, both critical in securing the team’s lead. The first came in the third inning off a 93.5 mph fastball from Chris Paddack, while the second was a four-run homer against Anthony Misiewicz’s curveball to right-center field. This accomplishment places Crow-Armstrong alongside legendary players Bobby Bonds and Eric Davis, the only others to reach 25 home runs and 25 stolen bases before the All-Star break.
At just 23 years old, Crow-Armstrong has exhibited a blend of power and speed rare in the Major Leagues. Currently batting .271 with an .869 OPS, his combination of offensive skills earned him a spot in this year’s All-Star game, confirming his status as one of baseball’s rising stars.
Jack Flaherty’s Personal Connection and Support for Crow-Armstrong
Jack Flaherty and Pete Crow-Armstrong share a long history, having played together on the same Little League team in Sherman Oaks, California. Though they are a few years apart, Flaherty umpired several games in which Crow-Armstrong played, creating a unique mentor-like bond. Both also attended Harvard-Westlake High School, a renowned program that produced other MLB talents like Lucas Giolito of the Boston Red Sox and Max Fried of the New York Yankees.
Crow-Armstrong was selected as the 19th overall pick in the 2020 MLB draft, following Flaherty who was chosen 34th six years earlier. Reflecting on their relationship and Crow-Armstrong’s growth, Crow-Armstrong said in a past MLBPA interview,
“You see them on the TV screen every weekend. I feel like I’m still earning my place to really hang with the bigger guys. I’m going to forget that’s Jack Flaherty. I’m going to forget that I’ve known him for years,” —Pete Crow-Armstrong
Additionally, Flaherty’s mother, Eileen, publicly celebrated Crow-Armstrong’s milestone on Instagram, expressing pride and admiration with a simple ‘Wow’ GIF following an infographic showcasing the achievement.
Flaherty’s Lighthearted Take on Competing Against Crow-Armstrong
On June 8, the Detroit Tigers, led by Jack Flaherty, shut out the Cubs in a 4-0 game. Following the matchup, Flaherty humorously commented on facing Crow-Armstrong, highlighting their longstanding connection. As ESPN reported, Flaherty shared,
“He’s a good kid,” —Jack Flaherty
He continued with a joking threat,
“I’m going to hit him,” —Jack Flaherty
During this game, Crow-Armstrong went 1-for-3 with a pop-out and a fly-out against Flaherty’s pitching, underscoring the competitive but friendly rivalry between the two Californian-born players.
Significance of Crow-Armstrong’s 25-25 Achievement and Future Outlook
Pete Crow-Armstrong’s 25 home runs and 27 stolen bases by midseason place him in rarefied company, emphasizing his growing impact on the game. His performance reflects a combination of speed, power, and versatility that fans and analysts admire. With Jack Flaherty’s ongoing encouragement and their shared history, Crow-Armstrong’s trajectory suggests he will continue to develop as a key player for the Cubs and in MLB overall.
The Cubs’ coaching staff and fans will be watching closely as Crow-Armstrong aims to build on this momentum through the remainder of the season. His early success, backed by the support of familiar faces like Flaherty, marks him as an exciting talent capable of shaping Chicago’s future in the league.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What religion is Jack Flaherty?
A. When Flaherty was three weeks old, Eileen Flaherty adopted him. He practices the Catholic faith.