Cubs’ Pete Crow-Armstrong Calls Out-of-Zone Home Run ‘Cool’
In what has become a thrilling season for the Chicago Cubs, the spotlight shines brightly on center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. Recently, he achieved a remarkable feat by hitting the farthest pitch out of the strike zone for a home run, a moment he described as “cool.” This accomplishment, showcased during a game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, adds a new layer of excitement to an already captivating season.
During the fourth inning of the game, Crow-Armstrong faced a high fastball thrown by Pirates pitcher Andrew Heaney, which measured an impressive 8.1 inches above the edge of the strike zone. This remarkable distance made it the most extreme out-of-zone home run in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the 2025 season. With a powerful swing, Crow-Armstrong sent the ball soaring into the right field, breaking a scoreless tie and energizing the crowd.
After the Cubs secured a thrilling 3-2 victory, Crow-Armstrong shared his thoughts on the impressive home run. “I’m just committing to being on time for it,” he said, reflecting on his ability to connect with challenging pitches. “He has a good heater in a low slot. It presents itself with a lot of carry. I’m already thinking on top. Good to execute on a pitch like that.”
This home run marked Crow-Armstrong’s 18th of the season, all achieved within the last two months. His knack for hitting challenging pitches has earned him a reputation as a “bad-ball master.” The ability to connect with pitches above and below the strike zone, including two home runs that were at least three inches below the zone, showcases his exceptional talent. Cubs manager Craig Counsell marveled at Crow-Armstrong’s abilities, stating, “What you’ve seen in 30 years of baseball says it’s hard to hit balls for home runs. He’s proving me wrong.”
Even fellow players are left in awe of Crow-Armstrong’s unique talent. Cubs reliever Ryan Pressly admitted that he finds it difficult to pitch to Crow-Armstrong, stating, “Sometimes, he hits them off the ground and sometimes he hits them over his head. I don’t even know how to pitch Pete, to be honest with you.” This level of unpredictability adds to the excitement surrounding his performances.
As Crow-Armstrong continues to impress, he is solidifying his case for an All-Star selection in his second full season in the big leagues. With 18 home runs to his name and 21 stolen bases, he has showcased his all-around capabilities while playing Gold Glove-caliber defense. Notably, he currently leads the National League in fWAR (wins above replacement), making him a genuine contender for various accolades this season.
While Crow-Armstrong’s home runs have become a highlight, it is his overall impact on the team that is equally noteworthy. The Cubs are currently vying for the top spot in the National League, and Crow-Armstrong’s contributions are crucial. Manager Counsell praised his discipline at the plate, commenting, “He’s on time, and that’s allowing his A-swing to get off.” This discipline enables Crow-Armstrong to handle a wide range of pitches effectively.
The competition within the Cubs’ lineup adds another exciting dimension to Crow-Armstrong’s performance. He is currently tied for second in the National League in RBIs alongside teammate Seiya Suzuki, who also homered during the same game against the Pirates. This friendly rivalry has led to a potent combination at the heart of the Cubs’ batting order, alongside right fielder Kyle Tucker.
Crow-Armstrong shared his perspective on teamwork, saying, “What I’m doing is just contributing to the bigger picture. I’m still just trying to play my part because that’s what’s worked really well for us. On any given day, I don’t have to be the guy. That’s the coolest thing ever.” This humility, coupled with his undeniable talent, makes him a valuable asset not only to the Cubs but also to the overall landscape of baseball.
With the season progressing, fans and critics alike are keenly following Pete Crow-Armstrong’s journey. His out-of-zone home run serves as a testament to his incredible skills, but it is his ability to rise to challenges consistently that sets him apart. As the Cubs aim for playoff contention, Crow-Armstrong is setting an example of determination and excellence on and off the field, inspiring a new generation of players and fans.
Ultimately, as we witness Crow-Armstrong’s incredible season unfold, it’s evident that his achievements transcend statistics. His commitment to the game, ability to make the impossible possible, and willingness to contribute to team success resonate deeply with baseball enthusiasts everywhere. The excitement surrounding his performances only reinforces the anticipation for what lies ahead in this thrilling season. Pete Crow-Armstrong is undeniably making waves in the world of baseball, and his achievements are set to be remembered long after the final game of the season.
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