Pete Crow-Armstrong and Carson Kelly, both key members of the Chicago Cubs, enjoyed significant growth during their 2025 campaigns, helping end the team’s four-year absence from the playoffs. Though at different points in their careers, the two players displayed camaraderie and humor in a spring training game against the Texas Rangers on Saturday, showcasing their close bond off the field.
Humorous Exchange Highlights Their Growing Friendship
In an interview with Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network, the Gold Glove center fielder Crow-Armstrong and veteran catcher Kelly were asked to share their favorite traits about one another, offering a blend of insight and amusement to Cubs supporters. Crow-Armstrong praised Kelly’s unique fashion sense, saying,
“I love Carson’s dry sense of humor, and I love his suit jackets that he wears into the field every day, like suit hoodies,”
while adding,
“It’s a little different than anything I’ve ever seen before.”
Kelly responded with a playful compliment, stating,
“I try to look like Pete,”
and joked,
“I wanna be like Pete. When I grow up, I wanna be like Pete.”
Crow-Armstrong, however, expressed skepticism over the sincerity of Kelly’s remarks, telling McGregor,
“This feels like it’s just for the camera,”
and adding,
“This isn’t usually how this goes.”
Dynamic Rapport Adds Positive Energy Early in Spring Training
Although spring training had only just begun, Crow-Armstrong and Kelly engaged in a lively exchange reminiscent of a game well underway. Despite nearly an eight-year age difference, the duo’s brotherly chemistry provides a boost in morale amidst a competitive National League environment. Their mutual respect and humor establish a positive clubhouse environment that complements their on-field talent.
2025 Performances Spark High Expectations for 2026
Crow-Armstrong, 23, delivered a remarkable first half in 2025 and finished ninth in the National League MVP voting, concluding the season with 31 home runs, 95 RBIs, a slugging percentage of .481, and a .768 OPS. After facing challenges during the last two months of the campaign, he has focused on adjusting his swing during the offseason and plans to shorten his stride heading into 2026. Maintaining this refined approach throughout the season could solidify his status as the new face of the Cubs franchise.
Kelly, a native of Chicago and a 2012 second-round draft pick, aims to increase his role after spending much of his career as a backup catcher. In 2025, he played in 111 games, batting .249 with 17 home runs and a .761 OPS. While replicating that level of production will be challenging, Kelly is determined to contribute meaningfully to a winning Cubs team, both at the plate and through leadership in the dugout.
Looking Ahead: Impact of Their Growing Partnership on the Cubs
The evolving relationship between Crow-Armstrong and Kelly exemplifies the blend of youthful talent and experience shaping the Cubs’ roster. Their mix of competitiveness, humor, and mutual support enhances team chemistry during crucial moments such as spring training. Fans can expect this vibrant duo to be key figures throughout the upcoming season, offering both offensive firepower and clubhouse leadership as the Cubs strive to make a deep postseason run.
Carson Kelly: “When I grow up I wanna be like Pete.”
PCA: “This feels like it’s just for the camera.” 😂 pic.twitter.com/zizALJN3dT
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) February 21, 2026
