The Chicago Cubs are fully focused on securing the “golden future” of their franchise, and that means locking down Gold Glove center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (PCA) to a massive long-term contract. While the BREAKING news that a deal is signed may be premature, insider reports confirm the Cubs are closer than ever to making PCA the next pillar of their dynasty.
According to multiple reports, the offer the Cubs initially put on the table was substantially higher than previously believed, and both sides are keen to restart talks this offseason.
The $90 Million Negotiation
The reported figure of $90 million is now central to the negotiation. It was revealed that the Cubs, led by President Jed Hoyer, made an aggressive opening offer in that range at the start of the 2025 season.
- The Initial Offer: The Cubs reportedly approached the 23-year-old Pete Crow-Armstrong with an extension worth up to $90 million last spring. This figure was a significant increase from initial rumors that had pegged the offer closer to $75 million.
- The Rejection: PCA and his representatives reportedly turned down the offer. This was a bet on himself—a belief that his production in 2025 would justify a more lucrative deal.
- The Bet Paid Off: PCA emphatically delivered in 2025, recording the Cubs’ first 30-homer, 30-stolen base season since the mid-90s, winning a Gold Glove, and leading the team with a 5.4 fWAR. His value has undeniably increased since the $90 million figure was offered.
What the Cubs Are Banking On
The Ricketts family and the front office view PCA as more than just a player; he is a future icon and a major marketing cornerstone for the organization:
- The Acuña/Carroll Benchmark: PCA’s camp will look to similar early extensions signed by stars who were still pre-arbitration, specifically Ronald Acuña Jr. (8 years, $100 million) and Corbin Carroll (8 years, $111 million). Given his 2025 production, PCA is likely seeking a deal that exceeds the $100 million threshold.
- Cost Control: PCA is under team control through 2030 but will reach “Super Two” status after the 2026 season, giving him four years of arbitration eligibility instead of the usual three. Locking him up now would allow the Cubs to buy out those expensive arbitration years and potentially several free-agent years at a cheaper rate.
PCA’s Commitment
While negotiations are purely financial, Crow-Armstrong has consistently expressed his desire to remain on the North Side, telling reporters earlier this season:
“What’s important to me is being somewhere I feel convicted in winning at, where I feeling comfortable playing and living I absolutely think that Chicago is the place to do that for me. I already take so much pride in being a Cub.”
The clock is ticking for both sides to come to an agreement this offseason before PCA has another huge year in 2026, which would price him out of the Cubs’ current desired range.
With a massive contract for a young star in the works, the Cubs are still looking to shore up their pitching depth. Would you like the latest buzz on the Cubs’ pursuit of Japanese ace Tatsuya Imai?
