Chicago, IL – The Chicago Cubs are on the cusp of their most dangerous postseason push in years, powered by a deep and relentless batting order that chews through opposing pitchers from top to bottom. Yet, a growing faction of fans — and even a few quiet voices inside baseball circles — believe the team has been leaving its most explosive offensive weapon underutilized all season.
At the center of the conversation is Pete Crow-Armstrong, the young outfielder whose speed, defensive wizardry, and evolving bat have made him one of the most intriguing players in the Cubs’ clubhouse. The burning question: should Crow-Armstrong return to the leadoff spot, or would shaking up the order so late in the season risk disrupting the very chemistry that has made Chicago so dangerous?
The Case for Crow-Armstrong at Leadoff
Crow-Armstrong’s potential at the top of the order is obvious. His elite speed immediately pressures pitchers and defenses, forcing quick decisions and creating havoc on the basepaths. When he’s locked in, his on-base skills and ability to stretch singles into doubles give the Cubs a tone-setting spark that few teams can match.
Baseball analyst Mark DeRosa recently said on MLB Network:
“Pete changes the game from the very first pitch. When he’s leading off, you feel like the Cubs are already in scoring position before the second batter steps in.”
Supporters of the move argue that October baseball is about maximizing every possible advantage, and having a player like Crow-Armstrong ignite the offense could be the missing link between a deep run and an early exit.
The Counterargument: Don’t Fix What’s Not Broken
The Cubs’ current batting order has been working — and in baseball, disrupting a good rhythm this late can be risky. Manager Craig Counsell has prioritized balance and matchup flexibility, often slotting Crow-Armstrong in the lower half of the lineup where his speed can still be weaponized against tired pitchers.
Team insiders note that Crow-Armstrong’s developing bat still has moments of inconsistency, and facing the league’s best pitchers in October from the leadoff spot could put added pressure on a young player still finding his offensive groove.
One anonymous NL scout put it bluntly:
“He’s a game-changer, no doubt. But playoffs are about experience. You don’t want to rattle the kid by throwing him into the fire against playoff aces right away.”
The October Factor
The Cubs have been here before — riding into the postseason with questions about their batting order. In high-pressure playoff matchups, every plate appearance matters, and a leadoff hitter’s job becomes even more critical.
If Crow-Armstrong’s bat stays hot in the final weeks of the regular season, the temptation to move him up might be too strong to resist. But the stakes are enormous: a miscalculation could stall the offense and derail the Cubs’ October dreams.
Manager’s Decision Looms
So far, Counsell has remained noncommittal, praising Crow-Armstrong’s development and versatility without revealing any plans to change the order.
“Pete’s a huge part of what we do,” Counsell told reporters. “Where he hits doesn’t define his value to this team. His job is to be ready, wherever he’s needed.”
The final decision may not come until the last days of the regular season — or even the opening game of the playoffs.