Cubs vs Mets Preview: Crow-Armstrong Sparks CHC as Pitchers Lead

Yesterday's game was electric. The Cubs came out swinging and Pete Crow-Armstrong absolutely dominated. In the second inning, he smashed a ball over right-center field for a two-run homer that sailed 409 feet. The crowd watched it disappear. By the fourth, Marcus Swanson added another blast. The Cubs built a 7-2 lead early and never looked back. Chicago's bats are locked in right now. That's dangerous for any pitcher. Crow-Armstrong is playing like a superstar. Speed, power, and defense all rolled into one.

The Mets fought back in the seventh when Luis Alvarez launched a solo shot to center. Nick Bichette added a two-run homer in the ninth. But it wasn't enough. Chicago won 9-6 and grabbed the series lead. The Cubs' lineup is clicking at exactly the right moment heading into tonight's rematch.

Let's talk about what makes Pete Crow-Armstrong so dangerous. This season he's hitting over .400 with eight home runs and fifteen RBIs. He's also stolen seven bases. That's elite speed combined with elite power. When Crow-Armstrong steps to the plate, the Mets have to be ready for anything. He can beat you with a single, steal a base, or launch one deep. His defense in center field is world-class too. Yesterday he proved why he belongs in the conversation with the best young players in baseball. The Mets' pitchers need to attack him early and keep him off balance tonight.

The Cubs' pitching staff gave up nine runs yesterday but still won. That tells you something about their lineup. Chicago has solid starters like Shota Imanaga and Matthew Boyd. They don't need to be perfect every night because the bats carry the load. The Mets' pitching staff features names like Kodai Senga and Freddy Peralta when healthy. Getting back Francisco Lindor at shortstop would be huge for New York's offense. The Mets are 34-43 this season and fighting to stay in the race. Tonight's matchup features Chicago at 40-37, so both teams need wins. This series is critical for both squads pushing toward the All-Star break.