Chicago Cubs Hall of Famer Billy Williams laughed in amazement as he described watching Pete Crow-Armstrong’s remarkable season. Williams, 88, is familiar with MVP-level performances, having finished as the National League runner-up in 1970 and 1972.
“When I first saw Pete play, I noticed his speed and thought, ‘He’ll be a catalyst for this team; he can run, he can steal bases,’” Williams told the Tribune. “Seeing him hit 43 home runs – that’s thrilling.”
Crow-Armstrong made history by breaking Williams’ record for most home runs by a left-handed hitter in a season. He hit two homers at Wrigley Field to achieve this. Williams watched from home and congratulated Crow-Armstrong after the game.
“I appreciate what he’s done as a player for himself and the organization,” Williams said. “I wish I was at the ballpark when fans chanted ‘M-V-P! M-V-P!’ He’s having a tremendous year, and he’s got to be considered for MVP.”
It took 56 years for a lefty to surpass Williams’ 42-homer record from 1970. Williams thought Kyle Schwarber might break it if the Cubs hadn’t parted ways with him. Crow-Armstrong’s early-season adjustments have fueled his power surge.
In a recent game, Crow-Armstrong hit .277 with a .369 on-base percentage, .941 OPS, 44 home runs, 29 doubles, 105 RBIs, and 115 runs scored.
“When I first saw him swing, I knew it was challenging at Wrigley with the wind,” Williams said. “But he hits line drives, which is crucial because the wind dictates where the ball goes. Any player with so many home runs at Wrigley is impressive.”
Crow-Armstrong’s 27 home runs at Wrigley only trail Schwarber (28) for most in a player’s home park this season. He has a chance to increase the number against the Miami Marlins.
Crow-Armstrong has worked with Williams through spring training, sharing the same number: Williams wore No. 4 during his debut season. Crow-Armstrong appreciates his ties to the franchise’s greatest left-handed hitter.
“I’ll find myself in the same conversation as guys like him,” Crow-Armstrong said. “He wants me to surpass his numbers, so I’m glad I could hit that one for Billy.”
Williams compared Crow-Armstrong to Sammy Sosa for the excitement he brings to fans.
“When Sammy hit home runs, fans waited to see him at bat. With Pete, it’s similar excitement. People pay to see him, and if he’s not batting late in the game, fans might leave,” Williams said. “Pete’s a player you pay to watch, and he excites the crowd and me.”
As the Cubs aim to secure a playoff spot with their magic number at two, Williams plans to attend postseason games. He values the connection with fans, noting his legacy in Chicago.
“Playing here, you did what you could to win, and even though we didn’t win a World Series, people recognize your effort,” Williams said.
Cubs’ success in the postseason will hinge on Crow-Armstrong’s performance. Williams sees vast potential for Crow-Armstrong.
“His ceiling is high. If he stays healthy, his future is limitless,” Williams said.