Cubs' Pete Crow-Armstrong Makes Home Run Derby Plans Clear

2025 isn't just the Year of the Snake – it's also the "Year of Pete Crow-Armstrong," as the center fielder has emerged as one of MLB's top breakout stars in his second full season with the Chicago Cubs.

Crow-Armstrong's all-around performance in the eighth inning of the Cubs' 5-3 win over the Milwaukee Brewers Tuesday night epitomizes the game-changing ability he possesses on both sides of the baseball. In the top of the frame, he robbed Brice Turang of a hit with a diving catch; just minutes later, he hit a two-run home run 452 feet off Wrigley Field's right-field scoreboard.

That game-winning shot was Crow-Armstrong's 19th of the season, putting him in position to be a slugger who could be called upon to compete in this year's Home Run Derby. But that won't be in the cards for Crow-Armstrong next month, as he confirmed that he is not interested in participating in this season's competition.

"No, that's not for me," Crow-Armstrong said, via ESPN's Jesse Rogers. "That's a different kind of power. I don't know if I can withstand however long the timer is there. That would be a struggle."