Cubs Star Crow-Armstrong Talks Fans, Contracts, and 2026 Hopes

The young center fielder opens up about his journey, the passionate Cubs fanbase, and his desire to stay in Chicago long-term.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:14am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a baseball player in motion, with sharp planes of color and overlapping perspectives conveying the energy and passion of the sport.Crow-Armstrong's dynamic play and connection with Cubs fans are captured in a cubist-inspired illustration.Chicago Today

In a revealing interview with Chicago Magazine, Chicago Cubs star center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong discusses his impressive 2025 season, the unwavering support of Cubs fans, and his desire to sign a long-term deal to remain with the team. Crow-Armstrong, a rising star who won a Gold Glove and made the All-Star team last year, credits the Cubs' passionate fanbase for their dedication and attention to detail. He expresses his commitment to the team's success and hopes to bring playoff baseball back to Chicago, while also acknowledging the need to balance team loyalty with fair market value in his contract negotiations.

Why it matters

As one of the Cubs' most promising young talents, Crow-Armstrong's comments provide insight into the team's culture, fan engagement, and the business side of professional baseball. His perspective on the Cubs' fanbase and his own contract situation offer a unique look at the challenges and opportunities facing a rising star in today's MLB landscape.

The details

Despite a rocky second half of the 2025 season, Crow-Armstrong praises the Cubs' fans for their unwavering support, describing them as more than just casual baseball enthusiasts. He acknowledges that, despite his rookie status, he is already the subject of contract talks, expressing his desire to stay with the Cubs long-term. Crow-Armstrong says he understands the business side of the game but is focused on helping the team win, stating that he is content with his current minimum-salary contract as long as the team is successful.

  • Crow-Armstrong won a Gold Glove and made his first All-Star team in 2025.
  • Crow-Armstrong is entering his third full season with the Cubs in 2026.

The players

Pete Crow-Armstrong

The Chicago Cubs' star center fielder, who won a Gold Glove and made the All-Star team in 2025.

Kyle Tucker

A former Cubs outfielder who has since departed the team.

Seiya Suzuki

The Cubs' new starting right fielder, who is expected to allow Crow-Armstrong to cover more ground in center field.

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What they’re saying

“Chicago is an incredible sports city with fans who truly care. They're not just there for the atmosphere; they pay attention to every play, every game. It's a privilege to play for such a passionate fan base.”

— Pete Crow-Armstrong, Chicago Cubs Center Fielder

“I want to be a Cub for as long as possible. I understand the business side, but my focus is on helping the team win. I'm content with my current contract; league minimum isn't so bad when you're part of a winning team.”

— Pete Crow-Armstrong, Chicago Cubs Center Fielder

“I want to be fair to the market, but I also want to be a Cub for life. It's a delicate balance, but I trust the process and my agents to work it out with the team.”

— Pete Crow-Armstrong, Chicago Cubs Center Fielder

“Seeing the city come alive during the playoffs was incredible. It's a simple, yet powerful goal - to bring playoff baseball back to Chicago. What's the point of playing if you're not aiming for the top?”

— Pete Crow-Armstrong, Chicago Cubs Center Fielder

What’s next

As Crow-Armstrong enters his third full season with the Cubs, he is expected to take on an even larger role in the outfield, with Seiya Suzuki moving to right field. The team and Crow-Armstrong's representatives will also continue contract negotiations, with both sides aiming to reach a long-term deal that benefits the player and the organization.

The takeaway

Crow-Armstrong's comments provide a unique glimpse into the mindset of a rising MLB star, highlighting his appreciation for the Cubs' passionate fanbase, his desire to remain with the team long-term, and his determination to bring playoff baseball back to Chicago. His balanced approach to contract negotiations and focus on team success over individual accolades suggest a maturity beyond his years, making him a key part of the Cubs' plans for the future.