Billy Williams Praises Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Historic Season with Chicago Cubs

Chicago Cubs Hall of Famer Billy Williams experienced a mix of amazement and disbelief while describing Pete Crow-Armstrong’s exceptional season. Williams, now 88, knows the dedication needed for an MVP-worthy season, having finished as the National League runner-up in 1970 and 1972.

During a phone conversation, Williams shared his first impressions of Crow-Armstrong with the Tribune. He noted the young player’s speed and potential to be a catalyst for the team. “When I first saw Pete play and I looked at the speed and I said, ‘He’s a player that’s going to be a catalyst for this ballclub, he can run, he can steal bases,'” said Williams. “But little did I think about him hitting 43 home runs — it gives me a great thrill to see an individual come along like that.”

Crow-Armstrong set a new record at Wrigley Field by breaking Williams’ mark for the most home runs by a left-handed hitter in a single season. He celebrated the milestone with two home runs in a Cubs victory. Williams watched from his Glen Ellyn home and called Crow-Armstrong to congratulate him afterward.

“I told him how much I appreciate that, doing it as a player for himself and for the current organization,” Williams said. He expressed his admiration for the young player’s season and mentioned he would have joined the crowd chanting ‘M-V-P!’

It took over half a century for another lefty to surpass Williams’ 42-homer record from 1970. Initially, Williams had thought that Kyle Schwarber might achieve it. Still, Crow-Armstrong proved his worth through early-season adjustments, including tweaks to his stance and hand placement, enhancing his power at the plate.

After the Cubs’ recent victory over the Cincinnati Reds, Crow-Armstrong boasts a .277 batting average, .369 on-base percentage, and .941 OPS along with 44 home runs, 29 doubles, 105 RBIs, and 115 runs scored.

Williams noted the challenges of playing at Wrigley Field, citing the wind’s impact on how balls travel. Crow-Armstrong’s 27 home runs at Wrigley place him behind only Kyle Schwarber in home-ground homers this season. With upcoming games, Crow-Armstrong may add more to his tally.

Over the years, Crow-Armstrong and Williams have maintained a relationship. Their shared history and jersey number connect them further. As Crow-Armstrong reflects on tying Williams’ home run record, he acknowledges the significance of being linked to a legendary left-handed hitter for the Cubs.

Williams compares Crow-Armstrong’s appeal to fans to that of Sammy Sosa during his prime. He points out how the young player excites the ballpark attendees, drawing parallels to Sosa’s impact.

With the Cubs nearing a playoff spot and aiming for the top wild-card position, Williams intends to support the team at Wrigley Field during any postseason matches. He fondly recalls the appreciation he receives from Cubs fans.

Looking forward, Williams expects Crow-Armstrong to continue achieving great things. “Oh, his ceiling is high, all he’s got to do is stay healthy,” Williams said. “Ain’t no telling what this kid is going to do in Chicago.”