The Chicago Cubs finished last year losing to the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Division Series. Now, they enter the 2026 MLB season looking to make a second straight postseason appearance and possibly win the NL Central for the first time since 2020.
Chasing the franchise's fourth World Series title, Chicago will be relying on center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. It's been an eventful offseason for the 24-year-old, signing a six-year, $115 million extension that runs through the 2032 season. He also made his first World Baseball Classic appearance, representing the USA.
However, with the Cubs' opening day on Thursday, he's focused on the regular season. Crow-Armstrong is looking to outperform his impressive 2025 season.
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Last year, the center fielder slashed .247/.287/.481 with 146 hits, 91 runs scored, 31 home runs, 95 RBIs and 35 stolen bases in 647 plate appearances. That led to a ninth-place finish in NL MVP voting, an All-Star appearance and winning a Gold Glove award.
As one of MLB's top young stars, his personal brand continues to grow, leading to a handful of exciting off-field opportunities. On Wednesday, Crow-Armstrong announced a new partnership with Gatorade through a joint Instagram post.
"For @petecrowarmstrong, Opening Day is only the beginning ⚡️ Welcome to the Gatorade Fam, PCA," the post wrote.
Gatorade joins a growing list of companies to team up with Crow-Armstrong, which includes T-Mobile, Southwest, Fight Club and Bat Wraps Co. Making his MLB debut in 2023, Crow-Armstrong's popularity has steadily increased.
He and the Cubs are now set to open the season with a home matchup against the Washington Nationals. First pitch is scheduled for 2:20 p.m. ET at Wrigley Field on Thursday.
