Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Stellar Defense Garners Platinum Glove Award

Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong has earned the National League Platinum Glove award. This accolade results from fan votes, recognizing the standout defensive player among the ten Gold Glove winners in each league. Crow-Armstrong is the second Cubs player to receive this distinction since Rawlings introduced it in 2011, following Anthony Rizzo’s 2016 win.

This achievement precedes the upcoming MVP announcement. The 24-year-old’s exceptional season raises the possibility of him becoming the National League’s unanimous MVP choice.

On May 17, 2026, Crow-Armstrong demonstrated his defensive skills with a remarkable catch against the White Sox at Rate Field. Reflecting on his successful season, Crow-Armstrong remarked, “We take the field every day knowing that we’re capable of changing the course of a ball game with our gloves, and that’s a good pairing when you have the best offense in baseball.” He added that having a top league offense and defense is a source of pride for him and his teammates.

The New York Yankees’ Cody Bellinger received the American League Platinum Glove award. Bellinger, a former Cub, commended Crow-Armstrong’s defense at the All-Star Game in Philadelphia. “He’s seriously the best — he is the best defender in the game,” Bellinger stated. He recalled Crow-Armstrong’s potential during his first big-league call-up in September 2023 and his rookie season in 2024, noting his exceptional arm, awareness, and field intelligence.

The Cubs also earned the NL team Gold Glove award, marking their second consecutive win and their third overall since its introduction in 2020. Third baseman Alex Bregman emphasized the team-wide focus on defense, stating, “I feel like from top to bottom in the organization, we take pride in the defense and trying to save as many runs as possible.” He highlighted the importance of controlling bases and teamwork in achieving strong defensive performance.