Overview

• In July 2021 the Cubs acquired prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong from the Mets in exchange for Javier Báez and pitcher Trevor Williams.
• Crow-Armstrong became the fastest player in Cubs history to reach 25 homers and 25 steals, leading all National League players with a 5.2 WAR to earn the starting center field spot.
• After hip surgery in 2022, Báez shifted to center field and rebounded to bat .275 with 10 home runs, 39 RBIs and a 2.1 WAR, securing the American League’s starting outfield role.
• Their upcoming All-Star matchup caps a full-circle moment after Crow-Armstrong and Báez shared a hug on the infield at Comerica Park in June.
• Before the 2023 trade deadline the Mets briefly explored swapping Crow-Armstrong for Pete Alonso but the Cubs declined, underscoring Crow-Armstrong’s rising value.