
Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, also nicknamed "PCA," is making a mark as one of the best elite defenders in MLB.
He leads MLB with a +13 DRS, +10 OAA, +2 Arm Value and a +11 Field Running Value.
His elite metrics have him performing at a high-caliber level, which comes as no surprise.
The 24-year-old won his first career Rawlings Gold Glove Award for his strong performance in the NL as a center fielder last season.
Pete Crow-Armstrong through just 44 games this season:
— Just Baseball (@JustBB_Media) May 15, 2026
+13 DRS (1st in MLB)
+10 OAA (1st in MLB)
+2 Arm Value (1st in MLB)
+11 Fielding Run Value (1st in MLB) pic.twitter.com/PvOmxPgMYs
The Cubs have been able to sustain the lead in the NL Central for several reasons, but one keen factor is PCA's defensive abilities, which have been highlighted as groundbreaking.
His proficiency in reading the ball effectively with quick reaction times has allowed him to make acrobatic plays. He possesses solid range and speed that help him with tracking down balls in the gaps. It allows him to cover significant ground as well, making challenging plays appear effortless. From sliding catches to leaping dives at the wall, he's made several web gems that have made the highlight reel.
Pete Crow-Armstrong is just unbelievable in center field pic.twitter.com/MbsWYckjAv
— MLB (@MLB) May 12, 2026
His most recent display of top-notch defense was on May 12, where he made a leaping catch at the wall, taking a hit away from Austin Riley. His strong arm is another strong attribute with his defense, with his arm strength ranking in the 91st percentile at 91.1 mph. He's also been established for producing five-star catches by making difficult plays that have a low probability of turning into outs.
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