Chicago Cubs Center Fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong Continues to Shine Against Left-Handed Pitching

Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong has been excelling at improving his performance. He consistently enhances his skills against left-handed pitchers, contributing significantly to the team’s success. His development has been noted by Cubs manager Craig Counsell, who remarked on Crow-Armstrong’s impact before their victory against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Crow-Armstrong went 1-for-2 and was hit by a pitch from Cardinals’ left-hander Matthew Liberatore during Sunday’s game. The Cubs seized an early lead when Liberatore struggled with command, walking a batter and hitting two others. This season, the Cubs have shown proficiency against left-handers, achieving a .776 OPS, ranking second in the major leagues.

Crow-Armstrong has been a key player with his best season stats against same-sided pitchers, boasting a .286 average with a .922 OPS against left-handers, a notable improvement from previous performance metrics.

One adjustment contributing to his success is moving closer to the plate, enhancing his discipline while also slightly increasing vulnerability to inside pitches. Despite being hit on his left forearm by a pitch, trainer Nick Frangella and Counsell verified his condition, and he continued playing.

Crow-Armstrong received the National League player of the month honor for June after stellar performances. His focus remains on consistently delivering high-quality results in every game.

Javier Assad, Cubs pitcher, benefited from the team’s early lead, maintaining composure through a challenging second inning and finishing with scoreless innings, aided by catcher Carson Kelly’s excellent pitch calls.

In the sixth inning, the Cubs encountered difficulties as Jordan Walker hit a three-run home run off Tyler Ferguson, leading the Cardinals. Cubs regained the lead, aided by critical errors from St. Louis, ultimately achieving victory. Counsell acknowledged the importance of capitalizing on opponents’ mistakes.

Additionally, pitcher Jameson Taillon’s rehab outing with High-A South Bend showed progress, throwing a solid 45 pitches, indicating positive recovery, as noted by Counsell.

Andy Martinez contributed reporting for the Chicago Tribune.