50 Facts About Pete Crow-Armstrong

Pete Crow-Armstrong: A Rising Star in Baseball

Pete Crow-Armstrong, affectionately known as PCA, is quickly becoming a household name in the baseball world. Born on March 25, 2002, in Sherman Oaks, California, this young center fielder has already made significant strides in his career. Let's dive into 50 fascinating facts about this talented player.

1. Birthplace and Family: Pete Crow-Armstrong was born in Sherman Oaks, California. His parents, Ashley Crow and Matthew John Armstrong, are both actors. His mother, Ashley, has appeared in notable films and TV shows, including "Minority Report" and "Heroes," while his father, Matthew, has been in various TV shows such as "House," "The Young and the Restless," and "American Horror Story".

2. Draft History: Crow-Armstrong was drafted by the New York Mets with the 19th overall pick in the 2020 MLB draft. However, he was traded to the Chicago Cubs in July 2021, along with cash considerations, in exchange for shortstop Javier Baez and right-hander Trevor Williams.

3. High School Career: Before entering the professional ranks, Crow-Armstrong attended Harvard-Westlake High School in Los Angeles, California. He was a standout player in high school, showcasing his skills in both hitting and fielding.

Minor League Journey

Crow-Armstrong's journey through the minor leagues has been nothing short of impressive. His consistent performance at various levels has made him a top prospect.

4. Minor League Career: Crow-Armstrong has played for several minor league teams, including the Myrtle Beach Pelicans, South Bend Cubs, Tennessee Smokies, and Iowa Cubs. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to hit at every level, with notable performances in Low-A, High-A, Double-A, and Triple-A.

5. Batting Performance: Despite not being known for his offense, Crow-Armstrong has managed to be a productive hitter throughout his minor league career. In 2022, he combined to hit .312 with an .896 OPS in Low-A and High-A. In 73 games with Double-A Tennessee in 2023, he hit .289 with an .898 OPS. Since joining Triple-A Iowa on August 1, 2023, he has hit .271 with an .829 OPS.

6. Power Hitting: Crow-Armstrong has shown significant improvement in his power hitting. In 2022, he hit 16 home runs and recorded 36 extra-base hits across 423 at-bats. In 2023, he recorded 20 home runs and 46 extra-base hits across 438 at-bats. His power is often most evident when the bases are loaded, as he has cranked four grand slams this season.

Defensive Skills and Speed

Crow-Armstrong's defensive prowess and speed make him a standout player. His abilities in the outfield and on the bases are exceptional.

7. Defensive Prowess: Crow-Armstrong is widely regarded as an elite defender in center field. MLB Pipeline has given him an 80-grade fielding rating, indicating exceptional range, precision reads and routes, and solid arm strength. He is considered one of the best defensive outfielders in the minor leagues and might already be under consideration for a Gold Glove award.

8. Speed: Crow-Armstrong possesses 60-grade speed, according to MLB Pipeline. He has demonstrated this speed by swiping 32 bases in 43 attempts in 2022 and 37 bases in 47 attempts in 2023. His speed makes him a valuable asset as a pinch-runner and base stealer.

9. Base Running: Crow-Armstrong's aggressive base running has been a key aspect of his game. He has been instrumental in pushing the envelope on the bases, contributing to the Cubs' aggressive base-running strategy. The Cubs have seen a significant increase in stolen bases this season, with Crow-Armstrong being a major contributor.

Personal Connections and Inspirations

Crow-Armstrong's personal life and inspirations have shaped his journey in baseball. His connections to the Cubs and his favorite players have influenced his career.

10. Cubs Fandom: Despite being born in Southern California, Crow-Armstrong grew up as a Cubs fan. His father, Matthew, introduced him to the game by showing him Kerry Wood's 20-strikeout game when he was a kid. This early exposure to the Cubs' history and culture has made him a true fan of the team.

11. Wrigley Field Experience: Before entering the professional ranks, Crow-Armstrong got to play at Wrigley Field in the 2019 Under Armour All-America Game. He walked, stole a base, and scored in the game, giving him a taste of what it's like to play at one of baseball's iconic stadiums.

12. Minor Swing Changes: The Cubs have helped Crow-Armstrong incorporate minor swing changes that have boosted his power potential. These adjustments have allowed him to tap into his raw power more effectively, making him a more formidable hitter at the plate.

Challenges and Adjustments

Every player faces challenges, and Crow-Armstrong is no exception. His ability to adapt and overcome obstacles has been crucial to his development.

13. Plate Approach Concerns: While Crow-Armstrong has shown significant improvement in his hitting, there are still concerns about his plate approach. He has been described as hyper-aggressive, which can sometimes lead to poor pitch selection and lower contact rates. However, he has shown the ability to learn and adapt, particularly with the Cubs' revamped swing.

14. Rule 5 Eligibility: As of the current season, Crow-Armstrong is not Rule 5 eligible since he is on the 40-man roster. This status ensures that he will remain with the Cubs unless they choose to trade him or place him on waivers.

15. MLB Pipeline Rankings: MLB Pipeline ranks Crow-Armstrong as the No. 12 overall prospect in baseball. This ranking reflects his exceptional defensive skills, impressive speed, and growing power at the plate.

Recognition and Awards

Crow-Armstrong's talent has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.

16. Cubs Player Development: The Cubs' vice president of player development, Jared Banner, has praised Crow-Armstrong for his maturity and competitive drive. Banner believes that Crow-Armstrong shows up every day looking to work and get better, and he has shown the ability to adjust and respond to adversity.

17. First MLB Debut: Crow-Armstrong made his MLB debut on September 11, 2023, for the Chicago Cubs. In his first stint in the big leagues, he faced a challenging environment but demonstrated his potential by notching two hits in 12 plate appearances.

18. Performance Metrics: In his brief MLB stint, Crow-Armstrong has shown mixed results. He has struggled with contact rates, particularly in his first go in Triple-A where he had a 67% contact rate. However, he has also displayed flashes of brilliance, such as hitting .271 with an .829 OPS in Triple-A Iowa.

19. Career Regular Season Stats: As of the end of the 2023 regular season, Crow-Armstrong's career regular season stats include 14 at-bats, 3 runs, 0 hits, 0 home runs, 1 RBI, and 2 stolen bases. His OPS stands at .176.

20. MiLB Awards: Crow-Armstrong has received several awards and accolades throughout his minor league career. He was named the Rawlings MiLB Gold Glove winner in 2022 while playing for the South Bend Cubs. He also received the MiLB Defensive Player of the Year award in 2023 while with the Iowa Cubs.

All-Star Selections and Honors

Crow-Armstrong's consistent performance has earned him several All-Star selections and honors.

21. MiLB Post-Season All-Star: Crow-Armstrong has been selected as a post-season All-Star in both 2022 and 2023. In 2022, he was recognized for his outstanding performance with the South Bend Cubs, and in 2023, he was honored for his contributions to the Iowa Cubs.

22. MiLB Organization All-Star: Crow-Armstrong has been part of the Chicago Cubs' organization All-Star team in both 2022 and 2023. This recognition highlights his consistent excellence at various levels of the minor leagues.

23. MLB Pipeline's Best Defensive Player: In January 2023, MLB Pipeline listed Crow-Armstrong as the best defensive player in the minor leagues. This endorsement underscores his exceptional defensive skills, which are considered among the best in the minor leagues.

Power and Performance

Crow-Armstrong's power hitting and performance metrics reveal his potential as a formidable hitter.

24. Grand Slams: Crow-Armstrong has hit four grand slams this season, including one on the 16th pitch of an at-bat. He blasted two grand slams in the week prior to his promotion to the MLB, showcasing his ability to hit for power in critical situations.

25. Exit Velocity: Crow-Armstrong's exit velocity has been impressive, particularly in his recent stint with the Iowa Cubs. His ability to generate significant bat speed has contributed to his increased power numbers.

26. Base Hits Breakdown: A detailed breakdown of Crow-Armstrong's base hits shows a consistent pattern of hitting for contact and power. His ability to hit singles, doubles, triples, and home runs has made him a versatile hitter.

27. Home Run Breakdown: Crow-Armstrong's home run breakdown indicates that he is capable of hitting for power in various situations. His grand slams and other home runs have been crucial in his overall hitting performance.

Social Media and Personal Favorites

Crow-Armstrong's social media presence and personal favorites offer a glimpse into his life off the field.

28. Social Media Presence: Crow-Armstrong is active on social media, particularly on Instagram, where he is known by his handle @petecrowarmstrong. This platform allows fans to stay updated with his personal life and career milestones.

29. Favorite Player: Before being drafted, Crow-Armstrong mentioned that his favorite player to watch was Javier Báez. Little did he know that he would eventually be involved in a trade with his favorite player.

30. Wrigley Field Backyard: Growing up, Crow-Armstrong had a Wrigley Field-esque ivy-covered wall in his backyard when he played Wiffle ball. This nostalgic setup reflects his deep connection to the Cubs and their iconic stadium.

31. Favorite Movie: Crow-Armstrong's favorite movie is "Little Big League," which features his mother, Ashley Crow, playing the role of Jenny. He loves the movie regardless of his mother's involvement, highlighting its enduring appeal to him.

Career Milestones and Achievements

Crow-Armstrong's career milestones and achievements highlight his rapid progression through the minor leagues.

32. Career Milestones: Crow-Armstrong has achieved several career milestones, including being named an All-MiLB Prospect Second Team in 2023 and receiving the MiLB Defensive Player of the Year award in the same year.

33. Career Awards: Throughout his minor league career, Crow-Armstrong has received numerous awards and accolades. These recognitions include being named a post-season All-Star and receiving the Rawlings MiLB Gold Glove award.

34. Career Transactions: A detailed look at Crow-Armstrong's career transactions reveals his steady progression through the minor leagues. He has been assigned to various teams, including the Iowa Cubs, Tennessee Smokies, South Bend Cubs, and Myrtle Beach Pelicans.

35. Career Stats: As of the end of the 2023 regular season, Crow-Armstrong's career stats include 14 at-bats, 3 runs, 0 hits, 0 home runs, 1 RBI, and 2 stolen bases. His OPS stands at .176.

Future Prospects

As Crow-Armstrong continues to develop, there is significant upside for him to become a key player for the Chicago Cubs.

36. Career Awards Summary: A summary of Crow-Armstrong's career awards highlights his consistent excellence throughout his minor league career. He has been recognized for his defensive prowess and hitting ability at various levels of the minor leagues.

37. Career Milestones Summary: A summary of Crow-Armstrong's career milestones underscores his rapid progression through the minor leagues. From being named an All-MiLB Prospect Second Team to receiving the MiLB Defensive Player of the Year award, he has consistently demonstrated his potential as a top prospect.

38. Career Transactions Summary: A summary of Crow-Armstrong's career transactions provides insight into his steady progression through the minor leagues. From being assigned to various teams to being selected by the Chicago Cubs, he has navigated the minor league system with ease.

39. Career Stats Summary: A summary of Crow-Armstrong's career stats highlights his mixed results in his brief MLB stint. Despite struggling with contact rates, he has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in his hitting performance with the Iowa Cubs.

40. Career Awards and Accolades: Crow-Armstrong has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his minor league career. These recognitions include being named a post-season All-Star and receiving the Rawlings MiLB Gold Glove award.

41. Career Milestones and Achievements: A detailed look at Crow-Armstrong's career milestones and achievements underscores his rapid progression through the minor leagues. From being named an All-MiLB Prospect Second Team to receiving the MiLB Defensive Player of the Year award, he has consistently demonstrated his potential as a top prospect.

42. Career Transactions and Assignments: A detailed look at Crow-Armstrong's career transactions and assignments reveals his steady progression through the minor leagues. He has been assigned to various teams, including the Iowa Cubs, Tennessee Smokies, South Bend Cubs, and Myrtle Beach Pelicans.

43. Career Stats and Performance Metrics: As of the end of the 2023 regular season, Crow-Armstrong's career stats include 14 at-bats, 3 runs, 0 hits, 0 home runs, 1 RBI, and 2 stolen bases. His OPS stands at .176. A detailed breakdown of his performance metrics highlights his mixed results in his brief MLB stint.

44. Career Awards and Accolades Summary: A summary of Crow-Armstrong's career awards and accolades highlights his consistent excellence throughout his minor league career. He has been recognized for his defensive prowess and hitting ability at various levels of the minor leagues.

45. Career Milestones and Achievements Summary: A summary of Crow-Armstrong's career milestones and achievements underscores his rapid progression through the minor leagues. From being named an All-MiLB Prospect Second Team to receiving the MiLB Defensive Player of the Year award, he has consistently demonstrated his potential as a top prospect.

46. Career Transactions and Assignments Summary: A summary of Crow-Armstrong's career transactions and assignments provides insight into his steady progression through the minor leagues. From being assigned to various teams to being selected by the Chicago Cubs, he has navigated the minor league system with ease.

47. Career Stats and Performance Metrics Summary: A summary of Crow-Armstrong's career stats and performance metrics highlights his mixed results in his brief MLB stint. Despite struggling with contact rates, he has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in his hitting performance with the Iowa Cubs.

48. Career Awards and Accolades Summary: A summary of Crow-Armstrong's career awards and accolades highlights his consistent excellence throughout his minor league career. He has been recognized for his defensive prowess and hitting ability at various levels of the minor leagues.

49. Career Milestones and Achievements Summary: A summary of Crow-Armstrong's career milestones and achievements underscores his rapid progression through the minor leagues. From being named an All-MiLB Prospect Second Team to receiving the MiLB Defensive Player of the Year award, he has consistently demonstrated his potential as a top prospect.

50. Future Prospects: As Crow-Armstrong continues to develop, there is significant upside for him to become a key player for the Chicago Cubs. His defensive skills, speed, and power make him a versatile asset who could contribute significantly to the team's success in the future.

Pete Crow-Armstrong: A Rising Star

Pete Crow-Armstrong is a name to watch in baseball. Born in Sherman Oaks, California, to actor parents, he's quickly made a name for himself. Drafted by the New York Mets and later traded to the Chicago Cubs, Pete's journey has been impressive. His high school career at Harvard-Westlake showcased his talent, and his minor league stats back it up. With a .312 average in 2022 and a .289 in 2023, he's proven he can hit. His defensive skills are top-notch, earning him an 80-grade fielding rating from MLB Pipeline. Speed? He's got it, swiping 32 bases in 2022 and 37 in 2023. Despite some challenges with plate approach, his potential is undeniable. As he continues to develop, Pete Crow-Armstrong is poised to become a key player for the Cubs. Keep an eye on this rising star.