Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Remarkable Season and Billy Williams’ Legacy

Chicago Cubs Hall of Famer Billy Williams, at 88, exudes a mix of amazement and disbelief while describing Pete Crow-Armstrong’s outstanding season. Williams, a runner-up for the National League MVP in 1970 and 1972, recognizes the performance’s significance. During a phone call with the Tribune, he shared his impressions: “Upon seeing Pete play, I noticed his speed and thought, ‘He’s a player who’ll drive this team; he can run and steal bases,'” Williams remarked. “However, the surprise of him hitting 43 home runs thrills me—a testament to his development.”

Williams, a former left fielder for the Cubs, had been honored on June 29, 1969, for his record 896th consecutive game in the National League. Fast forward to a memorable Wednesday night at Wrigley Field, Crow-Armstrong broke Williams’ record for the most home runs by a left-hander in a season. His achievement was marked with two home runs, contributing to a Cubs victory. From his Glen Ellyn home, Williams watched the historic game and contacted Crow-Armstrong afterward to convey his congratulations.

“I expressed my gratitude and commended him on his performance for both himself and the organization,” Williams stated.

Williams emphasized how he wished to have been at the ballpark alongside the fans chanting “M-V-P.” He believes Crow-Armstrong exhibited MVP-worthy statistics that demand recognition.

Williams’ 42-homer record set in 1970 stood for 56 years, and he imagined Kyle Schwarber might have surpassed it had he remained with the Cubs, especially with the designated hitter role in the NL. Crow-Armstrong’s impressive season results from early adjustments to his approach, coupled with changes in stance and hand positioning.

At Wrigley Field, Crow-Armstrong has hit 27 home runs this season—second only to Schwarber’s 28 at a home park. His power show continues as he eyes further additions in the Cubs’ final home games against the Miami Marlins. His home run tally is tied for eighth in a season within the park’s history and is the highest since Moisés Alou’s 29 in 2004.

On August 29, 2026, after a dominant victory over the Reds with three home runs in a single game, Crow-Armstrong received a celebratory Gatorade spray from teammate Daniel Palencia. Crow-Armstrong acknowledges his special connection with Williams, frequently present during spring training. Both have worn the esteemed No. 4 jersey, a symbol of their shared legacy.

During a conversation after tying Williams’ home run record, Crow-Armstrong expressed, “Finding myself among legends like him is humbling. I’m proud to uphold the Cubs’ legacy, knowing he supports surpassing his numbers.”

Williams compared Crow-Armstrong’s “what’s next?” factor to Sammy Sosa’s allure in his prime, recalling fans’ anticipation whenever Sosa approached the plate. Williams believes fans will experience similar excitement with Crow-Armstrong, saying, “If he’s not batting late in the game, fans might consider leaving early, just as they did with Sosa.”

Anticipating postseason excitement, Williams plans to attend games at Wrigley, enjoying continued admiration from Cubs fans. Reflecting on his Chicago years, he noted, “We played our hearts out, and fans appreciate that dedication, even without a World Series win.”

Williams foresees further success for Crow-Armstrong, believing his potential is limitless, provided he stays healthy. “The sky’s the limit for him in Chicago,” Williams added.