CHICAGO – In a moment that will be etched in baseball history, Pete Crow-Armstrong has officially joined the 40-40 club, becoming the first player in Chicago Cubs history to reach this remarkable milestone.
Why it matters: Crow-Armstrong's achievement is not just a personal triumph but a historic moment for the Cubs franchise, marking him as one of the elite players in Major League Baseball. His season has captivated fans and solidified his status as a key figure in the sport.
- On Thursday afternoon, Crow-Armstrong stole second base in the first inning against the Miami Marlins, officially entering the 40-40 club.
- He is only the seventh player in MLB history to record at least 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in a single season.
- Crow-Armstrong has accumulated 45 home runs and 40 stolen bases this season, making him a standout performer.
Driving the news: The historic moment unfolded quickly. After drawing a leadoff walk against Marlins pitcher Tyler Phillips, Crow-Armstrong swiped second base on the very first pitch to teammate Seiya Suzuki.
- His successful steal was met with a roaring ovation from the crowd at Wrigley Field, who celebrated the achievement with chants of "MVP".
- The moment was a culmination of a season filled with outstanding performances, as Crow-Armstrong has consistently dazzled both fans and teammates alike.
State of play: Crow-Armstrong's performance this season has broken records and placed him firmly in the conversation for the National League MVP award.
- He currently leads the National League in several categories, including home runs (45), runs scored (119), slugging percentage (.577), OPS (.949), OPS+ (157), and wins above replacement (9.8).
- His 9.8 WAR ties him for the fourth-highest single-season mark in Cubs history.
The big picture: Crow-Armstrong's achievement places him alongside some of baseball's greatest players, including Shohei Ohtani, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Alfonso Soriano.
- He is the third player in four years to achieve a 40-40 season, following Ohtani in 2024 and Acuña in 2023.
- Crow-Armstrong's entry into the club is particularly notable as he is the first left-handed hitter in Cubs history to reach 40 home runs in a season since Billy Williams did so in 1970.
What they're saying: Cubs manager Craig Counsell praised Crow-Armstrong's incredible season, noting the significance of his achievement.
- “Everything Pete has done this year has been really incredible,” Counsell said. “I know that’s a milestone, but I think we’ve seen it all already this year.”
- Teammate Nico Hoerner commented on the atmosphere surrounding Crow-Armstrong, stating, "The fans are aware of it in a fun way. We're aware of it as well. He's handled it really well. It's an incredible accomplishment."
By the numbers: Crow-Armstrong's statistics this season highlight his exceptional abilities both offensively and defensively.
- He has a .280 batting average with a .373 on-base percentage and a .577 slugging percentage.
- Crow-Armstrong also recorded 107 RBIs and 16 defensive runs saved in center field.
Between the lines: The Cubs organization has high hopes for Crow-Armstrong, who was acquired from the New York Mets in 2021 as part of the trade for Javier Báez.
- Since then, he has rapidly developed into a star player, recognized for both his hitting prowess and defensive skills.
- Crow-Armstrong's rise has been marked by accolades, including being named a Gold Glove recipient and an All-Star for the past two seasons.
What's next: With the Cubs clinching a playoff spot, Crow-Armstrong's contributions will be even more important as they aim for postseason success.
- The Cubs are currently positioned as the No. 2 seed in the National League wild card race, with their sights set on making a deep playoff run.
- Crow-Armstrong will look to build on his historic season as the Cubs head into the playoffs, aiming to add more achievements to his already impressive resume.
As the 2026 season draws to a close, Pete Crow-Armstrong's name will forever be etched in Cubs lore, celebrated for his historic accomplishments and for the excitement he has brought to Wrigley Field and beyond.