Pete Crow-Armstrong: Rising Star in Outfield Defense

Pete Crow-Armstrong has established himself as a top outfielder as he approaches the completion of his third full season in Major League Baseball. Veteran outfielder Kevin Kiermaier was aware of Crow-Armstrong’s potential during his minor league days. Kiermaier, who spent 11 seasons as a center fielder for the Tampa Bay Rays, earned four Gold Glove Awards and a Platinum Glove Award.

Kiermaier reminisced, “I kept hearing about this kid, PCA, and how he might match my caliber. I watched his highlights and noticed his speed and arm.” Yet, Kiermaier felt the need to see more of Crow-Armstrong in action. During a series in September 2024 at Dodger Stadium, after Kiermaier was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers, he witnessed firsthand Crow-Armstrong’s defensive prowess. Kiermaier described it as the most impressive defensive series he had ever seen.

Since then, Crow-Armstrong’s defense has only improved. He earned his first Gold Glove Award last year, with more likely to follow. Kiermaier remarked, “If he continues this trajectory, he could be in the discussion for the best ever. For the innings he has played, his skill level is undeniable.”

Advanced metrics further highlight Crow-Armstrong’s talent. He averages +5.0 feet above average with his jump, leading MLB outfielders, and covers 39.8 feet on average. In the Statcast era, Crow-Armstrong excels in low-probability catches. During a Cubs game on July 20 at Wrigley Field, he surpassed Kiermaier for the most 5-star catches since 2016, defined as catches with a 0-25% probability. As of now, he has achieved 35 such catches in 1,123 innings, with a 54.7% success rate.

Kiermaier’s own record was 32 5-star catches in 2,118 innings. “Crow-Armstrong is exceptional in covering ground,” Kiermaier noted. “Cubs fans and pitchers are fortunate to have him.”

Crow-Armstrong’s instincts and confidence are evident. His Outs Above Average stands at 59, with just a few in the league surpassing 70, including Harrison Bader and Byron Buxton. Kiermaier conceded, “The competitive side of me hesitates to say he’s better, but his numbers will be impressive.”

Kiermaier shared how, during his career, he always wished for the ball to be hit in his direction, especially in critical situations like sacrifice flies. He sees that same mentality in Crow-Armstrong, stating, “He has the mindset and the tools. He’s elite in every aspect and deserves respect.”

In 2025, Kiermaier worked with the Toronto Blue Jays to share his defensive insights. He realized the need to guide young outfielders and launched the 3-9 Effect to consult on improving outfield defense.

Kiermaier and Crow-Armstrong communicate via text, with Kiermaier often praising him. Kiermaier hopes to meet Crow-Armstrong in person someday, with Crow-Armstrong’s performances reminiscent of Kiermaier’s in his prime. “PCA is extraordinary and will remain elite for many years,” Kiermaier predicted. He expects future conversations to reveal that Crow-Armstrong exceeded all expectations, earning well-deserved acclaim.