x
The reality behind Pete Crow-Armstrong’s low All‑Star voting
Imagn Images

After a rough start, Pete Crow‑Armstrong has become one of the few bright spots in a Cubs season that has spiraled into frustration, inconsistency, and apathy. Recently, he captured his second National League Player of the Week award, reinforcing his status as one of the franchise’s most exciting young talents. In many ways, he has already become the face of the Cubs — both now and in the years ahead.

However, the latest All‑Star voting update delivered a blunt reality check: PCA currently sits 14th among National League outfielders, nowhere near the conversation for a starting spot. It’s a dramatic fall from last season, when he was voted in as a starter. Even with his recent surge, the votes simply aren’t coming.

And honestly, that shouldn’t surprise anyone. Several factors are working against him — and the Cubs.

The Cubs’ performance has turned off the fans


May 26, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (4) prepares to bat in the on-deck circle against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

To begin with, All‑Star voting is as much about popularity and emotion as it is about performance. Fans vote for players who excite them, who represent hope, who make the season feel worth following.

Right now, the Cubs offer none of that.

Over the past two months, they’ve lost games in bunches, looked lifeless for long stretches, and watched their supposed stars underperform. As a result, the season has become a slog, and the fanbase has responded accordingly. When a team plays this poorly, fans don’t reward them with All‑Star votes — they disengage.

Consequently, PCA’s recent hot streak hasn’t been enough to overcome the broader apathy surrounding the team. This isn’t just about his numbers; it’s about the overall perception of the Cubs, which has clearly taken a hit.

His immaturity and persona angered non-Chicago fans


Jun 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (4) celebrates with pitcher Daniel Palencia (48) after the game against the Oakland Athletics at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

In addition, PCA is dealing with a self‑inflicted problem: his reputation.

The helmet tosses.
The bat throws.
The visible frustration after strikeouts.
The spat with a White Sox fan.
The comments about Dodgers fans being “casual.”

Taken together, these moments have painted a picture of immaturity — fair or not. And in a season where the Cubs already feel unlikable, PCA’s emotional outbursts have only reinforced the perception that this team lacks composure and accountability.

As a result, opposing fans have taken notice. And since they’re voters too, the backlash shows up in the standings.

To be clear, PCA’s talent is undeniable. His defense is elite, his athleticism jumps off the field, and his ceiling remains sky‑high. Yet despite his recent offensive surge, his bat hasn’t been consistent enough to demand national attention.

While it’s unlikely he climbs into a starting spot, there remains an outside chance he could make the All‑Star team if other players opt out. Even so, PCA’s current standing reflects two realities: How poorly the Cubs have played, and how he is being perceived outside Chicago.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!