UPDATE: Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong is officially sitting out for his second consecutive game as of September 6, 2023. Manager Craig Counsell announced the decision to provide Crow-Armstrong with a much-needed “physical and mental” break after a series of struggles this season.
Crow-Armstrong’s absence comes during a crucial phase of the season, as the Cubs push for a playoff spot. The 23-year-old has struggled significantly since the All-Star break, posting a mere .212 batting average and a .624 OPS. His performance has dipped even further over the past month, with a troubling .163 average, just five extra-base hits, and an alarming 29 strikeouts since August 1.
“We’re giving him a real break,” Counsell stated before the Cubs faced the Atlanta Braves in a key matchup. “Just to give him a physical and mental break, and then going into the last 3½ weeks of the season, hopefully a little bit refreshed.” This decision marks a critical moment as the Cubs navigate the final stretch of the season.
The Cubs will have a day off on September 7, granting Crow-Armstrong a full three days to reset before their next game against the Washington Nationals. “I looked at this early in the [recent] road trip, thinking where could we get Pete a break,” Counsell reflected, emphasizing that the recent road trip made the need for rest apparent.
In the last six games of the Cubs’ nine-game trip, Crow-Armstrong played extensively in spacious stadiums, logging significant time in the outfield. Despite his challenges at the plate, the Cubs remain hopeful that this break will rejuvenate him for the crucial games ahead.
Super-utility player Willi Castro will fill in for Crow-Armstrong in center field during the Braves matchup, while designated hitter Seiya Suzuki will start in right field, taking over for Kyle Tucker, who left Tuesday’s game due to tightness in his left calf. The Cubs plan to provide an update on Tucker’s condition prior to Friday’s game against Washington.
Additionally, newly acquired switch-hitter Carlos Santana will make his first start with the Cubs, stepping in as designated hitter and bringing fresh energy to the lineup. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these changes impact the team’s performance in this high-stakes moment of the season.
Stay tuned for further developments as the Cubs aim to capitalize on this strategic break for Crow-Armstrong and push towards the postseason.
