Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong is gearing up for his inaugural World Baseball Classic, where he will join several star players representing Team USA. Among them, Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper stands out as the player Crow-Armstrong is most eager to meet and learn from during the tournament.
Anticipation Surrounding Harper’s Role on Team USA
Harper, a two-time MVP and eight-time All-Star, is expected to play a central part for Team USA in the 2026 WBC after missing the 2023 event because of an elbow surgery. Now fully healthy, Harper enters the competition after a solid 2025 season, batting .261 with 27 home runs, 75 RBIs, and 12 stolen bases. Crow-Armstrong has heard many positive things about Harper and looks forward to seeing how the veteran athlete operates day to day.
Crow-Armstrong’s Admiration and Learning Opportunity
Reflecting on Harper, Crow-Armstrong shared,
“Bryce Harper is the guy I’m looking forward to the most. Just being around people who have coached him or played with him, I’m just very excited to see him go about his business.”
He added,
“He’s been at the peak of everything for the longest time. He’s done it in a very authentic way, in a very real way. He’s done a lot of good things for the game, but just from a behind-the-scenes perspective, I’m excited to see him.”
Aiming to Emulate Harper’s Success
While Harper makes his long-awaited WBC debut this year, Crow-Armstrong is also stepping onto the international stage for the first time. Having reached his first All-Star Game in 2025, Crow-Armstrong views the Classic as an important chance to learn from Harper and other elite players, hoping to return to the Cubs equipped with new skills and, ideally, a gold medal.
