Crow-Armstrong Joins Elite Company with 70 Extra-Base Hits
Despite a challenging second half of the season, Pete Crow-Armstrong has still managed to make history for the Chicago Cubs. The young centerfielder burst out of the gates with a remarkable first half, but his performance has notably waned since then. Nonetheless, on Wednesday, Crow-Armstrong reached a significant milestone by recording his 70th extra-base hit of the season.
This achievement places him in rare company. He becomes the first centerfielder in the National League to reach 70 or more extra-base hits in a season while aged 23 or younger since Andruw Jones accomplished the feat back in 2000. To date, Crow-Armstrong has compiled an impressive tally of 37 doubles, four triples, and 29 home runs.
Impressive Stats Amidst Struggles
Even with the dip in his performance, Crow-Armstrong boasts a solid .774 OPS and has driven in 90 runs. His prowess on the base paths is equally remarkable, as he has stolen 35 bases in 42 attempts, showcasing his speed and agility.
When it comes to defense, Crow-Armstrong mirrors the exceptional skills of Jones. His ability to glide across the outfield and make difficult catches look effortless has solidified his reputation as one of the premier defenders in baseball today.
Areas for Growth
However, there remains room for improvement in Crow-Armstrong’s game. His struggles this season have been compounded by a tendency to strike out frequently, often swinging at pitches outside the strike zone. Additionally, he has not been drawing walks at a significant rate. Refining his plate discipline could unlock even greater potential as he continues to develop as a player.
As Crow-Armstrong looks ahead, the combination of his extraordinary athleticism and the potential to grow in key areas suggests that he could be a formidable force in the seasons to come.