During the second game of the Red Sox and Chicago Cubs series, Pete Crow-Armstrong‘s energetic presence created an electrifying moment at Wrigley Field, igniting debate over his approach to the game. While his performance drew cheers from many, a college baseball coach publicly criticized Crow-Armstrong’s basepath antics, questioning whether such flair shows respect for baseball’s traditions.
In the game, Crow-Armstrong delivered a crisp double into right-center off Lucas Giolito and paused at second base, performing his trademark hop-and-shake move on the bag. This display of personality quickly became a flashpoint for criticism, notably from Matt McLaren, head coach at Olney Central College, who responded sharply to video footage of the moment.
Coach McLaren posted on social media, expressing his disdain for what he saw as a lack of reverence for the game‘s standards. He said,
“LOL… I’ve marked a ton of kids off a roster while recruiting that just don’t respect the game. The standard in baseball is way too low at the top end and it is bleeding into the lower levels. Kudos to the good programs that don’t allow it.”
—Matt McLaren, Olney Central College Head Coach
McLaren, known for his traditionalist views and emphasis on discipline, maintains a strict no-flair policy within his own program, which has struggled recently with a 42–57 record. His comments reflect concern about the influence of major league behavior on younger players in lower tiers of the sport.
Performance Highlights Undermine Criticism: Crow-Armstrong’s Impact on the Field
In contrast to the critique, Pete Crow-Armstrong continued to cement his status as a key player for the Chicago Cubs. In the same game, he launched his 26th home run of the season off Chris Murphy during the eighth inning, extending the Cubs’ lead to 6–0. Additionally, he displayed his speed by stealing a base, contributing significantly to his team’s momentum.
Crow-Armstrong has quietly forged a compelling MVP case in 2025, posting a slash line of .268/.304/.551, alongside 28 stolen bases and 72 RBIs over 97 games. His combination of power hitting, swift baserunning, and defensive prowess counters any suggestion that his showmanship diminishes his professionalism or effectiveness.
While his style may attract scrutiny, it is impossible to ignore the tangible results he delivers. Crow-Armstrong’s influence extends beyond dance moves and flair, representing a new wave of players who blend skill with personality.
Recognition and Respect from Peers in Major League Baseball
Fans and analysts have recognized Crow-Armstrong’s value, voting him as the Midseason National League MVP, a distinction confirmed by Fox Sports. This accolade affirms that his contributions are more than mere spectacle, as they directly impact outcomes on the field.
Crow-Armstrong ranks sixth in home runs, seventh in RBIs, fourth in steals, and eleventh in slugging percentage in the league. Furthermore, he earned his first All-Star selection and ranks seventh in Defensive Wins Above Replacement (WAR), underscoring his comprehensive impact on both offense and defense.
Teammate Kyle Tucker voiced his admiration by saying,
“He’s got more than me now, so I expect him to finish with more than me. He’s been a lot of fun to watch and be part of the team with him every day.”
—Kyle Tucker, Chicago Cubs Outfielder
Tucker’s comments highlight the respect Crow-Armstrong commands among his peers, emphasizing that his blend of skill and personality energizes the team rather than distracts from it.
Balancing Tradition and Modernity in Baseball Culture
The debate over Crow-Armstrong’s flair touches on broader tensions between traditionalist values and the evolving culture of professional baseball. Coaches like Matt McLaren prioritize decorum, discipline, and restraint, fearing that visible displays of individualism may erode foundational respect for the game.
Yet, players like Crow-Armstrong represent a demographic that couples competitive excellence with expressive celebration, engaging fans and invigorating the sport’s entertainment aspect. His dance moves, confident demeanor, and consistent production on the field suggest that personality need not come at the expense of professionalism.
This friction reflects a sport in transition, negotiating its heritage with contemporary demands for spectacle and personality. The response to Crow-Armstrong’s style may well influence how future generations interpret respect and expression within baseball.
The Road Ahead for Pete Crow-Armstrong and Baseball’s Future
As the Chicago Cubs pursue a World Series title, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s contributions and style will remain under scrutiny. His consistent performance positions him as a cornerstone of the team’s aspirations, while his outspoken critics advocate a more restrained approach to the game’s presentation.
Whether Crow-Armstrong’s flair is endlessly embraced or tempered by tradition, his influence is undeniable. His journey encapsulates the ongoing dialogue about baseball’s identity, where the lines between respect and showmanship continue to be defined.
The outcome of this debate will likely shape standards at all levels of baseball, from major leagues down to college programs like Olney Central College, as the sport seeks to engage diverse audiences while preserving its fundamental values.