Pete Crow-Armstrong, born in Los Angeles, was raised by a father who supported the Chicago Cubs.
During his childhood, he attended Dodgers matches, yet insists he never developed an allegiance to the team, adhering to explicit instructions from his dad. An excerpt from Crow-Armstrong’s September contribution to The Players’ Tribune states:
While I was a child in Los Angeles, my father established a few guidelines for me.
1) Supporting the Dodgers was forbidden.
2) I was not allowed to cheer for the Cardinals.
Currently, the 23-year-old standout outfielder for the Cubs, Crow-Armstrong, is openly demonstrating disapproval — directed not at the Dodgers team, but at its supporters. The following is a statement from Crow-Armstrong, featured in an article published Monday by Chicago Magazine:
“My affection for Chicago continues to grow,” Crow-Armstrong commented. “It truly is a magnificent metropolis. Its inhabitants are wonderful. They genuinely care.”
“Unlike certain baseball enthusiasts, such as those who attend Dodgers games merely for photos and superficial reasons, these individuals are attentive. They demonstrate genuine concern.”
Pete Crow-Armstrong, captured here enduring the frosty conditions of a January Bears game as a true enthusiast would.
(Kara Durrette via Getty Images)
The criticism directed at Dodgers supporters seemed unexpected. The article, at a minimum, provides no background for it. Crow-Armstrong was discussing his adjustment to Chicago and increasing fondness for the metropolis, and seemingly chose to include a jab at sports enthusiasts from his native area.
He is not an anomaly. Critiquing Southern California sports followers represents a long-standing custom in municipalities that value their blue-collar origins — particularly those situated in colder regions.
The prevailing stereotype suggests, “Observe those complacent sports followers, enjoying their pleasant climate and numerous alternative activities besides attending a match.”
In essence: This statement is likely to be well-received in Chicago. And a youthful athlete who already captured the affection of the North Side during his outstanding 2025 season has undoubtedly garnered even more favor with Cubs supporters.
