The Chicago Cubs recently engaged in contract extension discussions with electrifying outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. At 23 years old and still in his pre-arbitration years, Crow-Armstrong turned down the reported offer from Chicago that per Mark Feinsand would have maxed out at $75 million if all options were exercised.
The proposed deal would have provided one of the Cubs most exciting young talents with financial security for the foreseeable future, but Crow-Armstrong and his camp clearly believe that bigger things are ahead, both on the field and financially.
Chicago Cubs’ Pete Crow-Armstrong makes statement after turning down contract extension
Following the contract news, Crow-Armstrong let his bat do the talking. Rather than being distracted by these discussions, he responded with a statement performance against the Los Angeles Dodgers, showcasing the same high-energy play that has made him one of the most promising young outfielders in the game.
On Sunday night baseball, Crow Armstrong went 3-4 with two home runs, a triple, and two RBI. The longs balls came off of veterans Tyler Glasnow and Blake Treinen whereas his triple came at the expense of southpaw Jack Dreyer.
Crow Armstrong’s strong performance helped fuel a 4-2 Cubs win, but per Jesse Rogers it also marked the first time a MLB player had two homers and a triple in the same game since August 24 of last year. The last player to do it was Chicago’s designated hitter Seiya Suzuki, who accomplished the feat against the Marlins.
This performance by Crow-Armstrong was a statement game by him as it signals a deep confidence in his trajectory and value. By betting on himself, he’s banking on continued growth and production that could lead to a much more lucrative payday down the line.
For the Cubs, it’s a reminder of just how high his ceiling is, and that locking up a rising star may only get more expensive as his breakout potential turns into more consistent performance.