Pete Crow-Armstrong became the third player in Chicago Cubs history to record consecutive 20-home run and 20-stolen base seasons following a two-home run performance in a 9-7 win over the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards. By reaching the 20-20 milestone in just 92 games, Crow-Armstrong set a new franchise record, surpassing the previous mark of 96 games held by Sammy Sosa.
How did Crow-Armstrong set a new Cubs record for 20-20 seasons?
Crow-Armstrong reached the 20-home run and 20-stolen base threshold in the third inning on Wednesday night. His first home run off Orioles right-hander Dean Kremer brought his season totals to 20 homers and 23 stolen bases. This achievement makes him only the third player in Cubs history to post back-to-back 20-20 seasons, joining Sammy Sosa (1993-95) and Ryne Sandberg (1990-91).
The speed of this achievement marks a significant shift in Cubs’ offensive history. Crow-Armstrong completed the feat in 92 games, beating the previous franchise record of 96 games set by Sosa in 1994. According to MLB.com’s Sarah Langs, Crow-Armstrong is now the first player in the Major Leagues to achieve consecutive 20-20 seasons before the All-Star break since Alfonso Soriano did so with the Yankees in 2002-03.
He joins an elite group of players who have reached 20-20 before their 95th game in multiple seasons, including Jose Canseco, Bobby Bonds, and Alfonso Soriano. When asked about the historic nature of these milestones, Crow-Armstrong told reporters, “I don’t [react]. I’ve got a lot more baseball to play.”
Before this season, Crow-Armstrong hit just .188 (9-for-48) with a .208 slugging percentage against split-finger fastballs.
How did Crow-Armstrong overcome Dean Kremer’s splitter?
Crow-Armstrong’s performance was defined by his ability to hit a pitch that typically serves as a weapon for pitchers. On Wednesday, he hit two home runs off Dean Kremer’s splitter. The second blast, which occurred in the fifth inning, carried an exit velocity of 106.7 mph, according to Statcast data.
This performance is statistically rare. Crow-Armstrong became only the fourth player in the Statcast Era (since 2015) to hit two home runs off splitters in a single game. The last player to accomplish this was Manny Machado on September 21, 2021. Entering the game, Kremer had limited opponents to a 2-for-27 showing with only two singles against his splitter and had not allowed a home run on the pitch since August 23 of last season.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell noted the impact of Crow-Armstrong’s ability to barrel difficult pitches. “Everyone in the dugout, on the first home run, is kind of shaking their head in amazement at how he’s able to get to that pitch,” Counsell said.
What is the scale of Crow-Armstrong’s recent hitting streak?
The center fielder is currently experiencing a significant statistical surge. Following an 0-for-10 stretch in a series against the Brewers, Crow-Armstrong has maintained a .464/.583/.929 slash line over his last 36 plate appearances. During this span, he has recorded four home runs, seven RBIs, and nine runs.
His improved plate discipline is also evident in the data. In these 36 plate appearances, he has recorded six walks and six strikeouts. Cubs starter Colin Rea observed the development in the batter’s box, stating, “It feels like he’s on everything. To see his approach and to see how he’s matured in the box, it’s fun to watch.”
Counsell described the player’s current state as “locked in,” noting the excitement surrounding his continued improvement. This recent form contributed to a Cubs offensive outburst where five different players—Michael Conforto, Carson Kelly, Seiya Suzuki, and Crow-Armstrong—cleared the fence to secure the 9-7 victory.
When analyzing elite hitters, look at their “split-finger” success rate. Crow-Armstrong’s jump from a .188 career average to hitting two splitters in one night is a primary indicator of advanced pitch recognition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the only other Cubs to have back-to-back 20-20 seasons?
Sammy Sosa (1993-95) and Ryne Sandberg (1990-91) are the only other players in Cubs history to achieve this.
How many games did it take Crow-Armstrong to reach 20-20?
He reached the milestone in 92 games, setting a new franchise record.
What exit velocity did Crow-Armstrong record on his home run?
According to Statcast, his second home run of the game had an exit velocity of 106.7 mph.
What do you think about Crow-Armstrong’s historic pace? Will he break the 30-30 mark this season? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep-dive baseball analytics.
