“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.
“We’re not just fighting for this season, we’re fighting for the future. We need everyone healthy, but we’ll adapt and do whatever it takes to win—starting with Philly.”
— Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit Lions Defensive End
The Detroit Lions are preparing for their most crucial game of the season against the Philadelphia Eagles, and the team’s injury report is taking center stage. With a playoff spot on the line, every player’s availability matters, but the status of two key players—defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and tight end Sam LaPorta—could make or break their chances.
Hutchinson, who missed Wednesday’s practice due to an elbow injury, returned to full participation on Thursday, giving the Lions a much-needed boost as they look to take down the NFC-leading Eagles. The 25-year-old has been a standout on defense this season, with seven sacks, seven tackles for loss, and four forced fumbles. Hutchinson’s return is a positive sign as the Lions prepare for what will be a tough challenge in Philadelphia.
“We’re not just fighting for this season, we’re fighting for the future. We need everyone healthy, but we’ll adapt and do whatever it takes to win—starting with Philly.” — Aidan Hutchinson, Detroit Lions Defensive End
On the other hand, the status of LaPorta remains in doubt. The 24-year-old tight end missed both Wednesday and Thursday’s practices due to a back injury, raising concerns about his availability for Week 11. LaPorta has been a crucial part of the Lions’ offense, ranking second on the team with 40 receptions, 489 yards, and three touchdowns. Losing him for this pivotal game would be a significant blow to a unit that has been averaging 31.4 points per game.
The Lions’ offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff and star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, would need to find a way to compensate for LaPorta’s absence. His presence in the red zone and ability to move the chains will be sorely missed if he’s unable to play.
In addition to Hutchinson and LaPorta, several other Lions players are nursing injuries. Pat O’Connor (knee) did not practice Thursday, and cornerback Amik Robertson (hamstring) was limited. Safety Kerby Joseph is dealing with a knee injury, while cornerback Terrion Arnold remains in concussion protocol. However, offensive linemen Penei Sewell (ankle), Taylor Decker (shoulder), edge rusher Marcus Davenport (pectoral), and running back Sione Vaki (ankle) all participated in limited practices and are expected to play.
With so many injuries lingering, the Lions need to dig deep to maintain their competitive edge against the Eagles. Head coach Dan Campbell knows the importance of this matchup, and Hutchinson’s leadership will be crucial to keeping the defense locked in.
As the Lions head into this high-stakes game, the message is clear: they’re not just fighting for this season, but for the long-term future of the team. With the NFC playoff race heating up, every game counts, and the Lions are ready to go all-in to make sure they’re still standing at the end of the season.
“We’re not just fighting for this season, we’re fighting for the future,” Hutchinson reiterated, underscoring the importance of this game for both immediate success and long-term team-building.
The Lions’ resilience will be tested against one of the toughest teams in the NFL, but if they can overcome these injuries and rise to the occasion, they’ll prove that they have what it takes to be a serious contender in the NFC.
Get ready for a crucial Week 11 showdown that could shape the trajectory of the Lions’ season—because the future of this team is on the line.