Cubs Finalizing Long-Term Extension With Pete Crow-Armstrong

Crow-Armstrong's performances thus far

During his first full year, PCA wowed with his speed and defense, snagging 27 out of 30 bags while patrolling centerfield.

In his second full season last year, Crow-Armstrong showcased his prowess at the plate and in the field, posting six WAR, 31 home runs, 95 RBIs, 35 stolen bases and 37 doubles. As a result, he finished ninth for National League MVP voting and earned a Gold Glove after leading the NL in Outs Above Average with 24.

Thus far in 2026, Crow-Armstrong struggled in seven Spring Training games with the Cubs (hitting .111), but impressed as a member of Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.

There, Crow-Armstrong hit .263 and showcased his hitting ability in the clutch, hitting two home runs against Italy in Group Play.

Although Crow-Armstrong was set to reach free agency after 2031, he’s now likely to be locked in with the club way beyond 2031.

Chicago's recent spending

This continues a recent spending spree for Chicago, who inked third baseman Alex Bregman to a five-year $175 million contract this winter.

The team also traded away top outfield prospect Owen Caissie to the Miami Marlins in return for another controllable starter, Edward Cabrera, who won't reach free agency until 2029.

With these moves, there's no doubt that the Cubs are going all-in for the future. And given the current outlook of the National League Central, it's hard to blame them.

Although the Milwaukee Brewers had the most wins in the National League last season, they are likely to take a step back after trading away their ace, Freddy Peralta. The Cincinnati Reds have yet to add enough bats to a rotation headlined by Andrew Abbott and Hunter Greene. That said, Greene will likely be sidelined until July to begin 2026.

As for the Cardinals and Pirates, each team seems to be at least a couple of years away, finishing the 2025 season with fewer than 80 wins.

With all these factors in mind, Cubs fans are hopeful that Crow-Armstrong and Bregman will help dominate the division for years to come.