It has been a remarkable start to the 2025 season for the Chicago Cubs, a team determined to end their playoff drought. With a strong winter behind them, the Cubs have exceeded expectations, boasting one of the most formidable offenses in baseball. Their ability to hit for power, maintain a high batting average, and excel on the bases has made them a well-rounded team. The depth of their lineup, from top to bottom, remains their greatest asset, capable of challenging any opposing pitcher.
While the Cubs’ depth is impressive, their lineup also features standout stars. The question of who stands out as the team’s MVP has sparked debate, with MLB.com’s Jordan Bastian highlighting Pete Crow-Armstrong as the emerging star of the first half of the season. Bastian noted,
“Kyle Tucker has lived up to his star billing and has made an instant impact on the Cubs’ lineup this season, but the emergence of Crow-Armstrong as a budding star has been the story of the first half on the North Side.”
The Rise of Pete Crow-Armstrong
Choosing between Kyle Tucker and Pete Crow-Armstrong for the MVP title is no easy task, given their comparable performances. However, Crow-Armstrong’s emergence as a young outfielder has been pivotal in the Cubs’ significant progress this season. His statistics speak volumes: a .262/.299/.537 slash line, 21 home runs, 61 RBIs, and 25 stolen bases. These numbers not only highlight his offensive prowess but also his potential to achieve a 40/40 season.
Despite his impressive stats, Crow-Armstrong has areas to improve, particularly his on-base percentage, which currently sits below .300. Nevertheless, his defensive skills, marked by his speed, make him one of the league’s top defenders, further solidifying his value to the team.
Kyle Tucker’s Consistent Excellence
Meanwhile, Kyle Tucker’s performance has been nothing short of stellar. His 2025 campaign includes a .291/.395/.537 slash line, 17 home runs, 52 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases. Tucker is on track for a potential 30/30 season, which would significantly boost his market value in the offseason. His consistent excellence at the plate has been a key factor in the Cubs’ offensive success.
Comparative Analysis
When comparing the two, Crow-Armstrong’s slightly higher home run and RBI totals give him a slight edge in the MVP race. However, Tucker’s superior on-base skills and consistency cannot be overlooked. Both players are having NL MVP-caliber seasons, driving the Cubs to new offensive heights.
Implications for the Cubs’ Future
The emergence of Crow-Armstrong and the consistent performance of Tucker have positioned the Cubs as serious contenders. Their offensive firepower has sparked optimism among fans and analysts alike, as the team aims to maintain its lead in the divisional race. The Cubs’ ability to sustain this level of play will be crucial as they face tougher competition in the second half of the season.
Looking ahead, the Cubs’ management will need to address key areas for improvement, particularly boosting Crow-Armstrong’s on-base skills and ensuring the team remains competitive against teams with winning records. The success of Crow-Armstrong and Tucker will be instrumental in the Cubs’ quest for postseason glory.
As the season progresses, fans and analysts will continue to watch closely as the Cubs strive to build on their strong start and make a deep playoff run. For more updates and in-depth analysis, stay tuned to Cubs On SI.
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