Cubs, Pete Crow-Armstrong agree to extension: How the All-Star OF found his power

Key Points:

• The Chicago Cubs have agreed to a six-year, $115 million contract extension with center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, starting in 2027 and securing him as a key part of their long-term plans.
• Crow-Armstrong, 24, had a breakout 2025 season with 31 home runs, 35 stolen bases, and Gold Glove-caliber defense, becoming one of the few Cubs players to achieve a 30-30 season and earning MVP votes.
• His power surge was aided by adjustments to his batting stance, including a wider setup that allowed him to pull fly balls at an elite rate, significantly boosting his slugging and home run totals.
• To continue improving, Crow-Armstrong needs to refine his plate discipline, particularly by reducing his high chase rate on pitches outside the strike zone, which affected his consistency during the 2025 season.
• The Cubs are expected to pursue contract extensions for other core players like Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Seiya Suzuki as several key contributors approach free agency, aiming to maintain a competitive roster.