The Chicago Cubs secured their first win of the 2025 MLB season , defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks 10-6 at Chase Field. Ahead of the game, Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer discussed the upcoming season and outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong on 670 The Score. Crow-Armstrong went 1-for-4 with a walk and two runs scored in the victory.
Hoyer praised the 23-year-old outfielder, noting that while Crow-Armstrong is an exciting player, there are still areas of his game that need development. “He plays with his hair on fire – he’s very emotional,” Hoyer said on the Spiegel & Holmes Show, according to Marquee Sports Network. “As he controls each at-bat more, he will be a great player.”
Crow-Armstrong struggled with controlling his at-bats in 2023, striking out 98 times in 410 plate appearances, resulting in a strikeout rate of 23.9%, slightly above the MLB average. Despite this, he possesses a high defensive upside in center field and uses his speed to his advantage. On Thursday, he stole his first base of the season against Zac Gallen and the Diamondbacks, continuing his strong base-stealing performance after swiping 27 bags in 30 attempts during the 2024 season.
Hoyer further emphasized that, like any young player, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s development will come with more at-bats and experience at the MLB level. “All the tools and abilities are there, and he’s super fun to watch,” Hoyer said. “The more he can slow the game down and take it pitch-to-pitch, the more he’s going to be a great player in this league.” Hoyer believes that as Crow-Armstrong gains experience, he’ll continue to refine his game and reach his potential as a key contributor for the Cubs.