Cubs reportedly close to extension with Pete Crow-Armstrong

Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong has quickly become a fan favorite. He may not be leaving the North Side any time soon.

ESPN's Jeff Passan reported that the Cubs and Crow-Armstrong are close to finalizing a long-term extension. Financial details are not yet available.

Crow-Armstrong launched himself into stardom in 2025. He posted a .247/.287/.481 batting line in his 647 plate appearances, hitting 31 homers and 37 doubles while stealing 35 bases. A 2025 All-Star, Crow-Armstrong won the 2025 National League Gold Glove in center and finished ninth in the MVP balloting.

Long-term extension for Pete Crow-Armstrong could backfire on Chicago Cubs

While there is no questioning his athleticism and defense, it is fair to wonder if Crow-Armstrong will be able to take the next step with the bat. He appeared to have done so in the first half of 2025, posting a .265/.302/.544 batting line in 401 plate appearances, hitting 25 homers and 21 doubles while stealing 27 bases. However, as Crow-Armstrong also struck out 92 times with 18 walks, that production did not appear sustainable.

Regression hit hard in the second half. Crow-Armstrong produced a disappointing .216/.262/.372 batting line with six homers and 16 doubles in 246 plate appearances while stealing eight bases. He continued to be aggressive at the plate, striking out 63 times with 11 walks as the league adjusted.

The talent is certainly there for the 23-year-old outfielder. His speed and excellent defense give him a high floor as a Gold Glove-caliber center fielder. Unless Crow-Armstrong can begin to work counts and improve his ability to get on base, a long-term extension could be a risky proposition for the Cubs.