Image Source: ESPN
Cubs game today delivered a historic afternoon at Wrigley Field, as Chicago defeated the Miami Marlins and secured a place in the MLB playoffs. The celebration came shortly after Pete Crow-Armstrong made franchise and league history by stealing his 40th base of the season.
The 24-year-old center fielder became just the seventh player in MLB history to record at least 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases in one season. His achievement added another remarkable chapter to a campaign that has transformed him from a promising young player into the overwhelming favorite for the National League Most Valuable Player award.
Cubs Game Today Ends With a Historic Playoff Celebration
Chicago’s playoff-clinching victory sparked a champagne celebration inside the Cubs’ clubhouse. Crow-Armstrong had already reached the 40/40 milestone earlier in the day, but the accomplishment became even more meaningful when the Cubs officially crossed the postseason finish line.
Rather than focusing on his own statistics, Crow-Armstrong emphasized the team’s success. He explained that every stolen base, home run and defensive play was intended to help Chicago win. That team-first approach has become a defining part of his outstanding season.
“I’m part of something bigger than me,” Crow-Armstrong said, according to ESPN. “If I have any goals, it’s being out there every day and being available every day.”
Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Explosive MVP Season
Crow-Armstrong entered the 2026 season with clear goals. After posting a .280 on-base percentage and a 55% swing rate the previous year, he wanted to reach base more often and reduce the number of pitches he chased.
The results have been dramatic. His on-base percentage improved by nearly 100 points, while his chase rate dropped by eight percentage points. That improved discipline allowed him to see more strikes and make better contact throughout the season.
- .303 batting average
- 38 home runs
- 83 RBIs
- 40 stolen bases
- National League leader in home runs, runs scored, games played and fWAR
Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer praised the season in emphatic terms, calling it the best position-player campaign he had ever seen. Hoyer also predicted that Crow-Armstrong would win the MVP award, the Hank Aaron Award and the Platinum Glove.
Key Offensive Improvement Changed Chicago’s Lineup
One of the biggest developments in Crow-Armstrong’s season has been his performance against left-handed pitching. In 2025, he struggled badly in that matchup, producing a .188/.217/.376 slash line in 188 at-bats against lefties.
This season, he improved that mark to .282/.378/.513. The change forced opposing managers to rethink a common strategy: bringing in a left-handed reliever to neutralize the Cubs’ leadoff hitter.
That improvement gave manager Craig Counsell the confidence to use Crow-Armstrong at the top of the order every day. His combination of power, speed and plate discipline created an uncomfortable opening challenge for opposing pitchers.
Elite Defense Gives Cubs Star a Complete Advantage
Crow-Armstrong’s offensive numbers are impressive enough on their own, but his defense has separated him from other MVP candidates. His range, instincts and speed in center field have repeatedly taken extra-base hits away from opposing hitters.
Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson said opposing batters appear to play with fear because well-hit balls toward center field often end up in Crow-Armstrong’s glove. Milwaukee Brewers star Christian Yelich also praised the young outfielder, comparing his season to Yelich’s own 2018 MVP campaign while noting that Crow-Armstrong brings elite defense as well.
New Cubs pitcher Clay Holmes added that Crow-Armstrong is doing things at the plate and in the field that are clearly better than what most players around the league are producing.
What the Cubs’ Playoff Berth Means for October
The postseason berth is especially important because Chicago has dealt with injuries, inconsistent pitching and stretches of uneven production across the roster. Crow-Armstrong’s availability has provided stability at a critical position and in the heart of the Cubs’ daily plans.
He has played every day, remained healthy and quickly recovered from short slumps. That consistency has helped Chicago survive difficult stretches and reach October with momentum.
The Cubs now enter the playoffs with a genuine superstar leading the way. If Crow-Armstrong continues to combine elite defense, power, speed and plate discipline, Chicago could become one of the most dangerous teams in the postseason.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in the Cubs game today?
The Chicago Cubs defeated the Miami Marlins at Wrigley Field and clinched a spot in the MLB playoffs.
What milestone did Pete Crow-Armstrong reach?
Crow-Armstrong stole his 40th base of the season, joining the exclusive MLB 40/40 club after also hitting at least 40 home runs.
Is Pete Crow-Armstrong the NL MVP favorite?
Yes. His power, speed, elite defense and improved plate discipline have made him the leading National League MVP candidate.
How has Crow-Armstrong improved offensively?
He raised his on-base percentage, lowered his chase rate and significantly improved against left-handed pitching.
