Pete Crow-Armstrong Achieves Rare 40-40 Club Milestone Amid MVP Buzz
Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong reached the 40-40 club with his 40th stolen base, bolstering his National League MVP candidacy.
Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong has joined the exclusive 40-40 club, achieving the milestone by stealing his 40th base of the season. This accomplishment further strengthens his case for the National League Most Valuable Player award, especially as other contenders face challenges.
Crow-Armstrong secured his 40th stolen base in the first inning of the Cubs' game against the Miami Marlins on Thursday, drawing a walk and then advancing to second base. The crowd at Wrigley Field erupted in celebration as he successfully stole the base.
The 24-year-old joins a select group of players who have achieved the 40-40 club, which requires at least 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in a single season. Previous members include Shohei Ohtani (2024), Ronald Acuña Jr. (2023), Alfonso Soriano (2006), Alex Rodriguez (1998), Barry Bonds (1996), and Jose Canseco (1988).
With Shohei Ohtani experiencing struggles and a hiatus from the game, Crow-Armstrong has emerged as a leading candidate for NL MVP. Entering Thursday's game, he had a .280 batting average, .373 on-base percentage, and a .577 slugging percentage, with 45 home runs and 107 RBIs in 158 games. His 40 stolen bases add another dimension to his already impressive season.
Beyond his offensive numbers, Crow-Armstrong is also recognized for his exceptional defense. According to Statcast, he has a fielding run value of 27, positioning him as one of MLB's most valuable defenders.
Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer commented on Crow-Armstrong's season, calling it the best position-player season he has witnessed, and predicted he would win MVP, the Hank Aaron Award, and the Platinum Glove.
Crow-Armstrong was originally drafted by the Mets in 2020 and acquired by the Cubs in a trade in 2022. After appearing in limited games in 2023 and 2024, he had a breakout season in 2025 and has established himself as a key player for the Cubs this year. He is on track to potentially become the Cubs' first regular-season MVP since Kris Bryant in 2016.