Pete Crow-Armstrong is capturing widespread attention as he chases the rare 40/50 club during a breakout season for the Chicago Cubs. At just 23 years old, Crow-Armstrong has developed into an All-Star centerfielder whose blend of power and speed is thrilling fans and analysts this year.
After a tough 2024 season, Crow-Armstrong has rebounded spectacularly. Playing in 95 games so far, he has already hit 25 home runs and driven in 71 runs, while maintaining an impressive slash line of .265/.302/.544. His impact extends beyond hitting—he has swiped 27 bases in 31 attempts, matching his entire total from last season but in significantly fewer games.
On Track for Baseball History With the 40/50 Club
The 40/50 club is a rare and prestigious milestone in Major League Baseball, reserved for players who hit at least 40 home runs and steal 50 bases in one season. Only two players, Ronald Acuña Jr. in 2023 and Shohei Ohtani in 2024, have reached these numbers in recent memory. Crow-Armstrong is currently pacing toward 42 home runs and 46 stolen bases, putting him on course to become just the third player ever to join this elite group.
ESPN highlighted the significance of his pursuit, noting the rarity of a player combining both power and speed at this level. The Cubs’ centerfielder has defied expectations, turning into a force both offensively and defensively.
Transformation and Growth Fueling His Surge
Prior to this season, the 40/50 club seemed almost mythical, achieved by only four players in MLB history. Crow-Armstrong’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable, fueled by improvements in his physical conditioning and skill set. His ability to pull the ball has helped increase his power numbers substantially, contributing to his breakout performance this year.
Reflecting on his career trajectory, an ESPN analyst commented,
“This one would be the most stunning of all. PCA entered the season with 10 homers, 29 steals and an 83 OPS+ in his career. His rise has been flat-out stunning.”
Accolades and Praise From Fellow Players
Crow-Armstrong’s feats have earned respect from peers across the league. Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star outfielder Corbin Carroll praised his all-around excellence, saying,
“He’s a much better defender than me. He has a much better arm. He’s a really complete player.”
Carroll also expressed surprise at Crow-Armstrong’s power explosion, noting,
“I don’t think I would have guessed he would have the power numbers he’s showing this year, but I guess people would have said that about me too. His ability to pull the ball in the air has been the difference for him, I think. He hits the ball so hard, all over the stadium.”
All-Star Honors Highlight a Season of Promise
As the All-Star Game approaches, Crow-Armstrong’s achievements have been formally recognized with his selection as the starting centerfielder for the National League. Batting ninth, his inclusion reflects both his individual excellence and the Cubs’ emergence as a team on the rise this season.
With every game, Pete Crow-Armstrong is cementing his status as one of baseball’s most exciting young talents. For Chicago Cubs supporters, his historic pursuit of the 40/50 club offers hope and energy as the season continues, with the potential for a milestone that could etch his name alongside the sport’s elite.