Suzuki Wants to See Cubs Teammate Crow-Armstrong Throw Helmet During WBC

The Japanese star is eager to witness his American teammate's signature move on the international stage.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Chicago Cubs outfielders Seiya Suzuki and Pete Crow-Armstrong will be facing off against each other in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, with Suzuki representing Japan and Crow-Armstrong playing for Team USA. Suzuki revealed that he is particularly eager to see Crow-Armstrong execute his signature move of sliding into bases with his helmet off, a boundary-pushing play that has become a trademark for the young Cubs star.

Why it matters

The World Baseball Classic is a high-stakes international tournament that showcases some of the best baseball talent from around the world. Suzuki and Crow-Armstrong's friendly rivalry and desire to see each other's signature moves on display adds an extra layer of excitement and drama to the event.

The details

Crow-Armstrong, who made the MLB All-Star team last season, is known for his aggressive baserunning style that sometimes includes sliding into bases without his helmet. Suzuki, who has been with the Cubs since 2022 after coming over from Japan's Nippon Professional League, is eager to witness this signature move from his teammate during the WBC. The tournament will feature a star-studded roster for both Team USA and defending champions Japan, led by Shohei Ohtani.

  • The 2026 World Baseball Classic is scheduled from March 5 to March 17.
  • Suzuki and Crow-Armstrong's Cubs teammate Alex Bregman will also be participating in the WBC, representing the United States.

The players

Seiya Suzuki

A Japanese outfielder who has played for the Chicago Cubs since 2022 after coming over from Japan's Nippon Professional League, where he played for the Hiroshima Toyo Carp from 2013 to 2021.

Pete Crow-Armstrong

An American outfielder who has played for the Chicago Cubs since 2023 and was selected to the MLB All-Star team last season.

Alex Bregman

An American infielder who is also a member of the Chicago Cubs and will be representing the United States in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I want to see Pete throw a helmet.”

— Seiya Suzuki (ESPN)

What’s next

The 2026 World Baseball Classic will take place from March 5 to March 17, with the championship game scheduled for March 17.

The takeaway

The friendly rivalry between Cubs teammates Seiya Suzuki and Pete Crow-Armstrong adds an exciting dynamic to the upcoming World Baseball Classic, as fans eagerly await to see if Crow-Armstrong will showcase his signature helmet-throwing move on the international stage.