In the quiet hours before the first pitch at Wrigley Field, Pete Crow-Armstrong practiced his swing. Preferring the controlled environment of the batting cage, the Chicago Cubs’ center fielder worked on perfecting his mechanics. On this day, though, he opted to hit some pitches from assistant coach John Mallee on the field, observing the ball’s flight.

The results frustrated Crow-Armstrong, and it marked a rare moment of struggle for the Cubs’ MLB MVP contender. Prior to Monday’s City Series opener against the White Sox, his performance had dipped, with a .128 average and a .227 on-base percentage over nine games. Conversations with coaches helped him regain confidence and perspective.

His mindset shifted to an aggressive, no-fear approach. Crow-Armstrong explained, “It’s pedal to the metal… Don’t be afraid to swing and miss.”

During the game, Crow-Armstrong showcased his prowess. He began by launching the first pitch from Sox starter Luis Castillo for a home run down the right-field line. He ended his performance with a decisive walk-off two-run home run in the 10th inning, granting the Cubs a 7-5 victory.

Crow-Armstrong is the first MLB player since 1957 to hit both a leadoff and a walk-off home run in the same game; this record was previously held by Vic Power of the Kansas City A’s.

Reflecting on the achievement, Crow-Armstrong noted, “I swung a lot today… Castillo is tough, and their bullpen has strong arms.” This accomplishment added another layer to his 30-home-run, 30-stolen-base season, joining an elite list of players with back-to-back 30-30 seasons. Only Sammy Sosa has recorded more such seasons with the Cubs.

Manager Craig Counsell praised Crow-Armstrong’s resilience, noting, “To do what he did tonight is just incredible.” The night cemented Crow-Armstrong’s status among the greats, making him the third player in MLB history to achieve multiple 30-home-run, 30-stolen-base seasons before the age of 25.

The game statistics are impressive. Two home runs, a double, a single, a stolen base, two runs scored, and three RBIs enhanced his fWAR by 0.5. His performance contrasted with others like Kyle Tucker, an offseason signee for the Dodgers, who holds a lower fWAR this season.

Hitting coach Dustin Kelly highlighted Crow-Armstrong’s ability to navigate slumps, attributing his success to controlling the lows. “Pitchers avoid mistakes with him, and his batting zone is substantial,” Kelly explained.

Although the White Sox manager, Will Venable, chose not to concede to Crow-Armstrong with intentional walks, the player’s aggression paid dividends. Alex Bregman’s timely performance in the ninth set the stage for Crow-Armstrong’s heroics.

On the mound, Shota Imanaga’s strong start and Jacob Webb’s scoreless relief work were crucial. The crowd at Wrigley Field erupted in “P-C-A” chants as anticipation built for Crow-Armstrong’s performance.

Crow-Armstrong, reflecting on his day, concluded, “With conviction comes some peace and calm in the batter’s box… I aimed to play offense, swinging without fear.”