Pete Crow-Armstrong went ballistic at umpires over controversial ruling

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Pete Crow-Armstrong went ballistic at umpires over controversial ruling

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated Aug 26, 2026 10:38 PM ET

Pete Crow-Armstrong did not have a good time Wednesday against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The Chicago Cubs star thought he was going to score from third base uncontested when D-Backs starter Eduardo Rodriguez appeared to step off in the middle of his wind-up. PCA had wandered far off third base, prompting E-Rod to throw a delayed pitch-out to catcher James McCann.

A balk call would have awarded the Cubs the first run of the game with two outs in the top of the 6th inning. Instead, the contest stayed scoreless in the series finale at Chase Field in Phoenix, Ariz.

Crew chief Alfonso Márquez on missed balk call in Cubs-Diamondbacks game, via @MegMontemurro:

"We just didn’t see it. After looking at the video [postgame], it looked like he stepped off."

The play is not reviewable.pic.twitter.com/twamk4c0cj
— Underdog MLB (@UnderdogMLB) August 26, 2026

The umpires huddled and ruled that Rodriguez had not balked. Balk calls are not reviewable with video assistance.

Crow-Armstrong went berserk once home plate umpire Alfonso Márquez announced that the play was not being reviewed for a balk. The Cubs outfielder had to be held back by third base coach Quintin Berry, who was able to cool off PCA just enough to prevent him from getting tossed.

PCA couldn't believe this was not a balk. pic.twitter.com/OkQgLV001O
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) August 26, 2026

PCA was left stranded at third base, as the Cubs failed to score a single run in a 2-0 loss.

It was not a good day or series for Crow-Armstrong. He was spotted going berserk in the dugout after striking out to end the top of the 3rd inning.

This continued poor behavior from Pete Crow-Armstrong should not be tolerated.

It is a terrible look for the game and could impact kids.

I think he should be suspended and if he re-offends, ineligible for any awards (i.e. MVP). pic.twitter.com/SYVIcnXiSk
— Dan Clark (@DanClarkSports) August 27, 2026

The All-Star slugger went 1-for-12 in three games against the Diamondbacks, with his lone hit of the series coming on the controversial 6th-inning play.

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