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Pete Crow-Armstrong has sparked a lively reaction among baseball fans after discussing an unusual conspiracy theory involving Babe Ruth. The Chicago Cubs outfielder mentioned the claim during a rapid-fire “unpopular opinions” segment on Kristin Cavallari’s Let’s Be Honest podcast.
Crow-Armstrong explained that he had heard a Seattle Mariners pitcher discussing the idea that Ruth never existed. The Cubs star called the theory entertaining and said it was one he “loved,” but he stopped short of endorsing it as fact.
Why Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Babe Ruth Comments Went Viral
When Cavallari asked whether he actually believed the theory, Crow-Armstrong offered a more nuanced answer. He compared the discussion to the way fans debate baseball’s evolution and the difficulty of comparing players from different eras.
“No,” Crow-Armstrong said, before explaining that the argument could be pushed further by questioning how much the game has changed since Ruth’s era. He pointed to the way legendary players are remembered and evaluated despite playing under very different conditions.
The remark quickly spread across social media, where several MLB fans criticized the Cubs outfielder. Some viewers interpreted the conversation as dismissive of one of baseball’s most important historical figures, even though Crow-Armstrong clearly indicated that he did not truly believe Babe Ruth was fictional.
- One fan wrote that Crow-Armstrong had “lost some respect” after the comments.
- Another reacted with, “Literally what?”
- Other fans debated whether the statement was intended as humor, curiosity or deliberate provocation.
A Bizarre Theory, Not a Serious Denial
Babe Ruth remains one of the most documented athletes in American sports history. His career with the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees helped transform baseball, and his statistical accomplishments continue to influence conversations about the greatest players of all time.
That context is why Crow-Armstrong’s comments attracted so much attention. The 2026 season has already placed him in discussions about baseball’s past and present. His own performance has produced comparisons with Ruth and Lou Gehrig, two iconic figures whose records remain central to the sport’s history.
Historic June Puts Cubs Star in MVP Conversation
According to the report from College Football Network, Crow-Armstrong enjoyed a remarkable June. He became only the third player in MLB history to post all of the following during a single month:
- A batting average of at least .375
- A slugging percentage of at least .775
- At least 80 total bases
- 15 walks
- 10 home runs
- Five stolen bases
The only other players to reach that combination were Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. Rather than embracing the comparison, Crow-Armstrong said he had not grown up watching those legends or studying their numbers closely.
He described Ruth and Gehrig as “folklore” and said he was more interested in being mentioned alongside Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Junior Caminero. Crow-Armstrong praised Caminero as another young player helping push the game forward.
That modest response has not reduced the significance of his season. Crow-Armstrong has emerged as one of the Cubs’ most exciting players and is now part of the broader 2026 National League MVP conversation. His production, athleticism and defensive ability have made him a major factor in Chicago’s success.
Fans Focus on the Joke, but the Numbers Tell a Bigger Story
The Babe Ruth discussion may have created a temporary controversy, but Crow-Armstrong’s on-field achievements remain the more important development. His historic June placed him in rare company, while his continued success has strengthened his reputation as one of MLB’s rising stars.
The episode also highlights how quickly comments from athletes can travel in the modern sports media environment. A playful podcast answer can become a national talking point within hours, especially when it involves an undisputed legend such as Ruth.
For now, Crow-Armstrong appears focused on baseball rather than the criticism. The Cubs star will likely continue attracting attention as the MVP race develops and as fans watch whether his historic production can carry through the remainder of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Pete Crow-Armstrong say Babe Ruth never existed?
He discussed the conspiracy theory that Babe Ruth never existed, but Crow-Armstrong said he did not actually believe it. His comments were presented as part of a humorous unpopular-opinions conversation.
Where did Pete Crow-Armstrong make the comments?
He made the remarks during an appearance on Kristin Cavallari’s Let’s Be Honest podcast.
Why was Crow-Armstrong compared with Babe Ruth?
His historic June included a rare combination of batting, power, walks and stolen bases that had previously been achieved only by Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig.
Is Pete Crow-Armstrong in the 2026 NL MVP conversation?
Yes. His impressive production and all-around play have made him one of the notable candidates in the 2026 National League MVP discussion.