Pete Crow-Armstrong Named 2026 National League MVP After Historic Campaign

Chicago Cubs standout Pete Crow-Armstrong secured the 2026 National League Most Valuable Player award in a unanimous vote by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. The 24-year-old outfielder bested finalists Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers and Brice Turang of the Milwaukee Brewers to claim the honor, capping off a season that saw him become the seventh player in MLB history to record at least 40 home runs and 40 stolen bases.

Crow-Armstrong's performance was the focal point of the Cubs' season, as he combined elite offensive production with defensive excellence. Beyond his 45 home runs and 41 stolen bases, he earned the Hank Aaron Award for offensive output and the Platinum Glove for his defensive work in center field. His contributions helped propel the Cubs to a postseason appearance, effectively challenging the recent dominance of Ohtani in the MVP voting.

Reflecting on his trajectory, general manager Carter Hawkins noted that the star remains focused on further improvement despite his current accolades. This work ethic mirrors his development since joining the organization in 2021; he signed a six-year, $115 million contract extension prior to this year’s Opening Day. Despite his massive success, Crow-Armstrong continues to train at Wrigley Field, prioritizing sustained growth even as the league faces the potential for a work stoppage.

As long as he manages his emotions, he could be the greatest player on the planet. — Justin Turner

What to watch next: Monitor potential developments regarding the league's labor negotiations as a possible lockout threatens the upcoming offseason timeline.