Chicago Cubs legend Billy Williams couldn’t contain his laughter as he described Pete Crow-Armstrong’s impressive season. At 88, Williams knows MVP-level play, having been runner-up in the National League in 1970 and 1972.
Williams recalled watching Crow-Armstrong play. “Seeing his speed,” Williams commented, “I thought he’d be a catalyst for the team, with his ability to run and steal bases.” However, Crow-Armstrong didn’t stop there. He hit an impressive 43 home runs, thrilling Williams.
The moment became historic at Wrigley Field when Crow-Armstrong surpassed Williams’ record for home runs by a left-handed Cubs player in a single season. Crow-Armstrong achieved this with style, hitting two home runs in a winning game for the Cubs.
Williams, who watched the record-breaking game from his home in Glen Ellyn, called Crow-Armstrong afterward to offer his congratulations. “I told him how much I appreciate him doing it for himself and the organization,” Williams shared. “I wanted to be at the ballpark cheering as fans chanted ‘MVP, MVP!’ because I believe he’s had an exceptional year, with much more to accomplish.”
“When I first saw him swinging the bat,” Williams mused, “I knew it would be challenging because of the lake wind and needing to hit line drives.”
After the Cubs’ victory over the Cincinnati Reds, Crow-Armstrong’s statistics stood at .277 average, a .369 on-base percentage, .941 OPS, 44 home runs, 29 doubles, 105 RBIs, and 115 runs.
Crow-Armstrong’s achievements at Wrigley place him among legends. With 27 home runs at Wrigley this season, he trails only Kyle Schwarber. As the Cubs face the Miami Marlins, Crow-Armstrong aims to further extend his record.
His feats have also drawn him close to Williams. Both have worn the same Cubs jersey number, symbolizing a shared legacy. Crow-Armstrong treasures this connection to Williams, appreciating his place alongside one of the franchise’s top hitters.
Williams compared Crow-Armstrong’s impact on fans to Sammy Sosa’s home run era. “The excitement he brings is remarkable,” Williams said. “It’s similar to the thrill Sammy gave fans at each at-bat.”
Looking ahead, Williams plans to support the team during their playoff campaign. He sees the statue and cheers from fans as a tribute to playing with full effort for the Cubs.
Crow-Armstrong’s potential excites Williams. “His ceiling is high,” Williams commented. “He must stay healthy, and the possibilities for his future in Chicago are boundless.”
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