Pete Crow-Armstrong had a standout performance on Saturday, hitting three home runs and driving in six runs, contributing to the Chicago Cubs' 17-5 victory against the Cincinnati Reds. Crow-Armstrong recorded four hits and scored four times in front of a crowd of 39,597 at Wrigley Field. Cubs manager Craig Counsell praised Crow-Armstrong's season, stating, "It’s a lot of fun to watch. … We’re lucky to be a part of it."
Prior to the game, Crow-Armstrong spoke with former Cubs player Sammy Sosa, who encouraged him to aim for three home runs during the game. Crow-Armstrong recounted Sosa's words: "He was like, ‘I want three out of you today. … I need three.’"
Crow-Armstrong is in contention for the National League MVP award, competing against Los Angeles Dodgers player Shohei Ohtani, who has been limited due to injuries. This season, Crow-Armstrong has a batting average of .282, with 36 home runs, 89 RBIs, and 32 steals in 136 games.
In the game, Crow-Armstrong hit a 435-foot home run in the first inning, followed by a two-run shot in the second inning. He achieved his fifth multihomer game of the season and the 11th of his career. Teammate Alex Bregman commented on Crow-Armstrong's versatility, noting his ability to impact the game in various ways.
Crow-Armstrong's final home run came in the seventh inning, a 444-foot drive to center field, as fans chanted "M-V-P! M-V-P!" He received a warm ovation from the crowd after his performance, even as he grounded out in the eighth inning. Crow-Armstrong expressed his appreciation for the growing relationship with Cubs fans, stating, "I’m just enjoying my time here more and more every day."