Pete Crow Armstrong has decided to stay in Chicago for a while longer.
And, honestly, it’s boosting my bank account a bit.
This week, it was confirmed that the Cubs center fielder has secured an extension, as reported by Jon Heyman from the Post. The deal, worth $115 million, will span six years, starting in 2027 and ending in 2032, allowing him to hit free agency before he turns 31.
Initially, ESPN’s Jeff Passan shared the basic details of the agreement, noting there’s no club option involved.
The Cubs acquired Armstrong from the Mets during the 2021 trade deadline in exchange for Javier Báez and Trevor Williams. Now, four years later, Chicago is beginning to see the rewards of that decision.
Following a unique journey that included navigating his rookie season in 2024 and then establishing himself in 2025, Armstrong posted a batting line of .247/.287/.481 with 31 home runs and 95 RBIs, helping the Cubs reach the National League Division Series. He also achieved a career-best 35 stolen bases and ranked in the 100th percentile for outs above average, according to Baseball Savant.
The son of actors Ashley Crowe and Matthew John Armstrong, he made his first All-Star appearance this past season, snagged a Gold Glove Award for being outstanding in center field, and has solidified his role as a vital part of the Cubs’ future.
That said, he did have a noticeable split in performance, with an OPS of .847 in the first half of the season compared to .698 in the latter half.
Armstrong also represented Team USA in the recent World Baseball Classic, where he contributed two home runs and six RBIs across six games.
Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer has expressed great confidence in the 23-year-old outfielder. “It might be a slow burn, or it could happen all at once, but I’m certain he will keep improving,” Hoyer remarked. “Even on his off days, he contributes as a player, and when he’s on, he truly shines.”
The Cubs are set to kick off their season Thursday afternoon against the Nationals.
