“Whenever you call, you know my answer is yes. Playing for my country is an honor like no other, and it’s something I cherish deeply. It’s not just about baseball; it’s about representing all the fans, the people who support you, and the pride of wearing that USA jersey. I’ll never take that for granted, and I’m ready to give everything I’ve got for Team USA.”
— Pete Crow-Armstrong
Pete Crow-Armstrong, the rising star of the Chicago Cubs, has made it clear: he’s ready to bring his electrifying game to the world stage. The center fielder, fresh off a breakout 2025 season where he hit 31 home runs and joined the 30/30 club—the first Cubs player to do so since Sammy Sosa—has confirmed he will play for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
Crow-Armstrong’s decision to join Team USA isn’t just a professional milestone; it’s a personal one. The young star, known for his unmatched athleticism and passion for the game, is eager to represent his country in what is arguably baseball’s most prestigious international competition.
“Whenever you call, you know my answer is yes,” said PCA, his voice full of pride. “Playing for my country is an honor like no other. It’s not just about baseball; it’s about representing all the fans, the people who support you, and the pride of wearing that USA jersey. I’ll never take that for granted, and I’m ready to give everything I’ve got for Team USA.”
His breakout season with the Cubs has turned heads across the league. With a 109 wRC+ and 5.4 fWAR, PCA proved he is more than ready for the big stage. His 31 home runs and 30 stolen bases placed him in elite company, joining Cubs legend Sammy Sosa in an exclusive club of players who have accomplished the 30/30 feat. As he heads into the World Baseball Classic, PCA will bring a potent bat and his impeccable skills in center field, ready to lead Team USA.
While PCA has secured his spot as a fan favorite in Chicago, his inclusion in Team USA could be the next chapter in his meteoric rise. “This is about something bigger than myself,” Crow-Armstrong said. “It’s about the pride of wearing that jersey, the history behind it, and knowing that every time I step on the field, I’m representing not just the country, but the love and support of everyone who’s ever rooted for me.”
With the 2026 World Baseball Classic just around the corner, Crow-Armstrong’s passion for the game and country has made waves. But with his combination of power, speed, and defense, he’s poised to take over as one of the standout stars for Team USA. Baseball fans across the globe will have their eyes on this rising superstar, as he takes his game to the next level.
As the Cubs continue to build for the future, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s journey with Team USA will be a pivotal moment for both the player and the sport. If the 2025 season was any indication, we’re just scratching the surface of what PCA can do. The World Baseball Classic is about to get a whole lot more exciting.
The Minnesota Wild (8-7-4) is back on home ice tonight to host the Vegas Golden Knights (8-4-5). The Wild will be without forward Vladimir Tarasenko for the second straight game.
Tarasenko, 33, has two goals and ten points in 18 games this year for the Wild. He missed Saturday’s game against the Anaheim Ducks with a lower-body injury and will not play again on Sunday.
Wild head coach John Hynes said after the game that Tarasenko’s status will be day-to-day.