Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Meteoric Rise: Cubs Star Closes in on MLB History

Chicago, IL — Pete Crow-Armstrong is no longer just a promising young talent — he’s becoming a franchise icon.

Through just 59 games of the 2025 MLB season, the 23-year-old Chicago Cubs outfielder has racked up an electrifying stat line:
15 home runs, 51 RBIs, 46 runs scored, a .272 batting average, and 19 stolen bases — all while playing elite defense in center field.

Those numbers not only make Crow-Armstrong a top contender for the National League All-Star team, but also place him squarely in the conversation for NL MVP, Gold Glove, and Silver Slugger awards.

But beyond the box scores, there’s another incredible and important milestone that’s caught the attention of baseball fans and historians alike…

Historic Milestone: Youngest Cub to Reach 15 HR & 15 SB in Under 60 Games

Pete Crow-Armstrong has officially become the youngest player in Chicago Cubs history to record 15 home runs and 15 stolen bases before playing his 60th game of the season. No Cub has ever reached those benchmarks this early — not even legends like Ryne Sandberg or Sammy Sosa.

This blend of power and speed at such a young age places Crow-Armstrong in rarefied air, joining names like Ronald Acuña Jr., Mike Trout, and Carlos Beltrán as players to show such multidimensional excellence early in their careers.

“He’s not just good — he’s different,” said Cubs manager Craig Counsell. “He brings the total package: defense, speed, instincts, and now power.”

Elite Defender with Gold Glove Aspirations

While his bat has made headlines, Crow-Armstrong’s glove is making history.

He currently ranks among the top three center fielders in all of MLB in key defensive metrics:

• +12 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS)

• +8 Outs Above Average (OAA)

• .997 Fielding Percentage

Known for his incredible range and fearless dives, he’s already building a Gold Glove-caliber resume, and is widely viewed as the front-runner for the award in center field.

“If there’s a ball in the air, Pete’s going to find a way to get to it,” said Cubs teammate Nico Hoerner. “He changes the game defensively every night.”

Offensive Breakout Makes Silver Slugger Plausible

Not to be overshadowed by his defense, Crow-Armstrong has become a consistent threat at the plate.

His .272 average, while solid, is complemented by a rising slugging percentage (.512) and OPS over .850, making him one of the most productive center fielders in the National League. With his combination of power and speed, he’s well on track to earn his first career Silver Slugger.

Fans and analysts have taken notice. His WAR (Wins Above Replacement) is currently projected to reach 7.0+ by season’s end, a figure that often puts players in MVP territory.

Fan Favorite and Face of the Franchise

Crow-Armstrong’s impact isn’t just statistical — it’s emotional.

He’s quickly become the face of the Cubs’ youth movement, reigniting energy at Wrigley Field with his hustle, charisma, and love for the game. Every home game feels like a highlight reel, and his jersey sales have skyrocketed — now among the top five in MLB.

“He plays with fire and joy,” said longtime Cubs fan Mary Sanchez. “It feels like watching the start of something historic.”

With the Cubs currently battling for the top spot in the NL Central, Crow-Armstrong has become the catalyst, leading both on and off the field.

All-Star and MVP Campaign Heating Up

With the 2025 MLB All-Star Game just around the corner, Crow-Armstrong is among the top vote-getters in the NL outfield. Barring injury, he’s expected to make his first career All-Star appearance, and possibly start the game in center field.

Beyond that? His name is appearing on early MVP ballots, and if his production continues — or even accelerates — he could become the youngest Cub to ever win the award.

Conclusion: The Legend Is Just Beginning

In a season full of storylines, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s breakout year is one of the most compelling.

With 15 HR, 51 RBI, 46 runs, 19 SB, elite defense, and a milestone no Cub has ever achieved, he’s not only rewriting record books — he’s building a legacy.

As Wrigley Field echoes with MVP chants and All-Star votes pour in, one thing is clear: the Pete Crow-Armstrong era has officially arrived.