Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Stellar Season as NL MVP

For months, the baseball community anticipated the moment when Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs would be named the National League MVP. That day finally arrived Thursday, with Crow-Armstrong being unanimously chosen as the MVP, earning all 30 first-place votes from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America.

“I’m blessed to have the ability that I do,” Crow-Armstrong said after receiving the honor. He reflected on his impact on the game, expressing joy at his contributions during the challenging 162-game season. At 24, he became a symbol of greatness for the Cubs in 2026, marking him as the 11th player in franchise history to win the MVP, with his remarkable influence showcased through numerous unforgettable moments.

1. Youngest Cub with a 3-Homer Game

On August 29, during the Cubs’ 150th anniversary celebration, Crow-Armstrong hit three home runs against the Cincinnati Reds. This made him the youngest player in Cubs history to achieve this at 24 years and 157 days old.

2. Silencing Cardinals Fans

On May 30, Crow-Armstrong responded to taunts from St. Louis Cardinals fans by hitting a 444-foot two-run homer, contributing to a four-hit performance during a nationally televised ESPN game.

3. Leadoff and Walk-Off Homers

In an August 17 game against the White Sox, Crow-Armstrong hit a leadoff home run and later a walk-off homer, a rare feat last accomplished in 1957.

4. Achieving Back-to-Back 30-30 Seasons

During the City Series, Crow-Armstrong became the first Cub to have consecutive 30-homer and 30-steal seasons. This achievement placed him among a select group in MLB history.

5. Hitting for the Cycle

On June 15 against the Rockies, Crow-Armstrong became the 13th Cub to hit for the cycle. Though he made a mistake on base, his performance led to a team victory.

6. Breaking Ryne Sandberg’s Record

In 2026, Crow-Armstrong surpassed Ryne Sandberg’s record for the most games with a home run and a stolen base in a single season, achieving it in nine games.

7. Creating Chaos Against the Blue Jays

On August 6, Crow-Armstrong’s speed led to a walk-off win against the Blue Jays, capitalizing on a throwing error after a bold dash to third base.

8. Surpassing Billy Williams

On September 16, Crow-Armstrong broke Billy Williams’ record for the most home runs by a left-handed Cub with a multi-homer game against the Braves.

9. Decisive Homer Against the Brewers

With local sports stars watching on September 3, Crow-Armstrong hit a go-ahead homer against the Brewers to secure a Cubs victory.

10. Making Cubs History with a 40-40 Season

On September 24 against the Marlins, Crow-Armstrong stole his 40th base, becoming the first Cub to achieve a 40-homer and 40-steal season, earning applause from the Wrigley Field crowd.