A new manifesto from the young Cubs generation: “We don’t just play ball – we inspire.”
Chicago just woke up to news that shook the sports world:
Pete Crow-Armstrong, the young but brave face of the Chicago Cubs, officially appeared in the TOP 100 most influential people in global sports in 2025, according to TIME’s announcement.
This is not just a title. This is a strong confirmation that: The Cubs own the symbol of a new generation – a star who not only shines on the field, but also lights a fire of inspiration in the hearts of millions of fans.
Why is Pete in the TIME 100?
Pete does not possess “outsized” statistics like Shohei Ohtani or Ronald Acuña Jr. But what he has is something that cannot be measured by WAR or OPS: Influence.
He is a symbol of resilience – overcoming loss, the pressure of expectation, and the rise and fall from the Minors to the Majors.
He is the Cubs’ anchor – the “spark plug” that ignites every offensive opportunity, saves unbelievable plays in center field.
He is a role model off the field – humble, committed to community service, inspiring to live true to his nature.
What does TIME Say About Pete?
“Crow-Armstrong is more than just a player. He is a living manifesto for the rebirth of traditional baseball: beautiful, courageous, and with heart.”
TIME chose him not because he won the MVP or the Golden Glove (though that may come soon), but because he makes every game an emotional epic – where every slide, belly slide, and high-five with a teammate counts.
Cubs Are No Longer Memories – They Are Now
Since the departure of Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, and Javier Báez, Wrigley Field has been mired in a sense of disorientation. But Pete, with his long hair blowing in the Chicago wind, his fearless eyes, and his heart that never stops beating for this city, has brought that rhythm back.
When he runs onto the field, kids wearing No. 52 scream his name, old people smile because “that kid plays like Ryne Sandberg reincarnated,” and teammates believe that no play is impossible with Pete in center field.
Not the Hype – Pete Is a Breeze of Change
In an era where players are competing to show off their multimillion-dollar contracts, Pete is known for his elementary school fan meetings, quiet evenings by his late grandmother’s empty chair, and his silent fundraising campaign for the victims of the Illinois wildfires.
And that’s the difference. He inspires through action, not the spotlight.
This Is the Beginning, Not the End
Being honored by TIME is not a destination. For Pete Crow-Armstrong – it is a new starting point.
He is now more than just “the hope of the Cubs”. He represents baseball that is both classic and modern, both passionate and humane – a shining gem in the current chaotic era of sports.