Pete Crow-Armstrong: Cubs’ All-Star Shines Against Left-Handed Pitching

Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong has worked hard to enhance his game, particularly his performance against left-handed pitchers. This focus has significantly benefited both him and the Cubs in their encounters with southpaws this season.

Before the Cubs’ 6-4 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field, Cubs manager Craig Counsell highlighted Crow-Armstrong’s progress, noting the positive impact on the team’s success against left-handed pitchers. Crow-Armstrong managed to go 1-for-2, adding a hit by pitch against Cardinals left-hander Matthew Liberatore, illustrating his strengthened capability against same-sided pitching.

As Liberatore struggled with command issues, walking a batter and hitting two others, the Cubs took an early two-run lead in the first inning. This season, the Cubs have excelled against left-handers, recording a .776 OPS, ranking as the second-best in the major leagues. Crow-Armstrong’s improvement has been pivotal, reflected in his impressive .286 average and .922 OPS against left-handers, a significant leap from his previous .188 and .594 marks in 2025.

To enhance his swing decisions and discipline, Crow-Armstrong made a strategic adjustment by moving closer to the plate. Last season, he stood 26.9 inches from the plate against left-handers. This season saw adjustments: 27 inches in April, 24.4 inches in May, then 23.7 inches in June and early July. While being closer exposes him to inside pitches, Crow-Armstrong remains resilient, having been hit on his left forearm by a 93.8 mph sinker from Liberatore but continuing the game.

The changes have not only bolstered Crow-Armstrong’s performance but also led to him being named National League player of the month for June, an accolade driven by hitting .381, with 11 home runs, 20 RBIs, and eight stolen bases. Crow-Armstrong expressed his awareness of his potential and dedication to maintaining high production levels for the team.

In Sunday’s game, Cubs starter Javier Assad overcame a shaky second inning to deliver 4 2/3 scoreless innings. Despite a bases-loaded predicament, Assad skillfully navigated through, retiring 10 successive Cardinals with effective pitch variety and control.

The Cubs bullpen faced challenges in the sixth inning when Cardinals player Jordan Walker hit a three-run homer off Tyler Ferguson, briefly giving the Cardinals the lead. However, the Cubs capitalized on errors by St. Louis, with Dansby Swanson and Pedro Ramírez contributing key plays that resulted in Cubs regaining control of the game.

Jameson Taillon’s recent rehab assignment showed promise as he allowed one run on four hits in 3 1/3 innings with High-A South Bend, a positive moment for his comeback from a left hamstring issue.

Overall, the Cubs have benefited tremendously from Crow-Armstrong’s evolving skills and strategic approach at the plate, bolstered by team efforts and key contributions from players like Assad and Taillon.

Andy Martinez contributes to the Chicago Tribune as a freelance reporter.