Chicago Cubs surge in MLB as Pete Crow-Armstrong enters MVP conversation

The Chicago Cubs are experiencing a period of high performance in Major League Baseball, highlighted by a recent 3-2 extra-innings victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. In that game, Alex Bregman hit a two-run home run in the ninth inning to tie the score, and Pete Crow-Armstrong secured the win in the 11th inning after scoring on a defensive error. The Cubs also recently defeated the Kansas City Royals 6-4 in Kevin Gausman's debut with the team.

Crow-Armstrong's stellar performance has significantly impacted the National League MVP conversation. His combination of power, speed, and defense has led sportsbooks and prediction markets to shift him into the top spot for MVP odds, challenging longtime favorite Shohei Ohtani. While Ohtani maintains advantages in several offensive categories, Crow-Armstrong's recent surge and Ohtani's ongoing knee injury have tightened the race.