In 2023, the New York Mets explored a potential trade to bring Pete Crow-Armstrong back from the Chicago Cubs, sparking new attention around the Pete Crow-Armstrong trade rumors. The Mets reached out to the Cubs during the MLB trade deadline with an offer involving Crow-Armstrong in exchange for star first baseman Pete Alonso. However, the Cubs declined the proposal quickly, ending the conversation before it gained traction.

This trade idea emerged amid significant roster moves by the Mets under the leadership of Billy Eppler, who actively reshaped the team by trading top pitchers Max Scherzer, David Robertson, and Justin Verlander, as well as outfielder Tommy Pham. While the Mets were hesitant to part with Alonso, they felt compelled to explore possibilities due to the changing organizational direction.

Details of the Proposed Trade and the Mets’ Strategy

According to Andy Martino of SNY, the Mets were in a phase of openness to new arrangements but wanted to test the market for Alonso without serious commitment. They contacted the Cubs with the idea of trading Crow-Armstrong back to the Mets in exchange for Alonso, hoping the Cubs’ apparent interest in Alonso might open a viable deal.

“Under the Billy Epler regime, this is the trade deadline in 2023, you remember, of course, they traded Max Scherzer, and David Robertson, and Justin Verlander, and Tommy Pham. They weren’t that eager to trade Pete Alonso at that time. In fact, that got in the news a little, and that was overstated at the time…But they felt like, because of what they were doing as an organization, they owed it to themselves to at least take calls on (Pete Alonso) and see if anyone would offer something they couldn’t pass up. They didn’t get close to anything, but in the Mets’ office, they hatched an idea that was like ‘Let’s just see.’ So they called the Cubs and said, ‘What about Pete (Crow Armstrong) for Pete (Alonso)? Send him back our way.’ Because the Cubs liked Alonso. And obviously, that’s a very short conversation … (as the Cubs shot them down).”

—Andy Martino, SNY

The Cubs, however, were firm in rejecting the proposal and decided to hold onto Crow-Armstrong, who at the time was still prospecting at Double-A. The brief exchange reveals the kinds of tactical considerations front offices make amid the uncertainty of trade deadlines.

Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Prospect Status and Performance in 2023

At the time of this potential trade, Pete Crow-Armstrong was demonstrating impressive performance metrics in the minor leagues. Slashing .289/.371/.527 with a weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 135 and maintaining a 24% strikeout rate, he showcased the offensive skills matched by elite defense and strong baserunning. These attributes solidified his standing as a coveted talent for the Cubs.

Baseball America ranked Crow-Armstrong not only as the Cubs’ No. 1 prospect but also 12th overall among all baseball prospects in 2023. This ranking perhaps underestimated his true potential, considering his rapid development and impact on the field. The Cubs’ resistance to trade him back to the Mets reflects their belief in his long-term value to the franchise.

The Broader Impact of the Trade Discussions on Future Moves

This unsuccessful attempt to reacquire Crow-Armstrong inadvertently shaped the Cubs’ future roster construction. With no trade secured for Alonso, the Cubs shifted focus and acquired Michael Busch, who has since become an important part of the team’s core players. This pivot emphasizes how one trade negotiation can influence subsequent decisions and overall team strategy.

Meanwhile, for Mets fans, this story is a reminder of the close calls and near misses in the fast-moving landscape of baseball trades, highlighting how front offices weigh potential gains against risks during critical moments, especially at the trade deadline.

Why This Trade Episode Matters for Baseball Fans

The attempt by the Mets to trade for Pete Crow-Armstrong in exchange for Pete Alonso illustrates the complexity of MLB trade negotiations and how player valuations evolve quickly. Given Crow-Armstrong’s rise as a midseason candidate for the National League MVP, even amid competition with players like Shohei Ohtani, the decision to retain him has been vindicated.

This episode also shows the challenges organizations face when balancing immediate needs with future potential, especially when young prospects are involved. The Cubs’ insistence on keeping Crow-Armstrong, coupled with their eventual addition of Busch, suggests a strong commitment to building through homegrown talent while still engaging in calculated trades.

As Pete Crow-Armstrong continues to grow as a key player for the Cubs, this story will remain a fascinating footnote in both the Mets’ and Cubs’ recent histories, highlighting a trade that nearly happened but, ultimately, did not.