Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong has drawn attention this week for his outspoken criticism of Los Angeles Dodgers fans. Crow-Armstrong, who grew up in Southern California but has strong family ties to Chicago Cubs fandom, praised Chicago’s passionate and engaged supporters while dismissing Dodgers fans as uninterested in baseball, according to multiple Yahoo Sports reports.
The comments have reignited a longstanding rivalry between the two fanbases ahead of their upcoming matchups later this month. Crow-Armstrong referenced a childhood rule from his father instructing him not to root for either the Dodgers or the St. Louis Cardinals, underscoring his identification with Chicago despite his SoCal origins.
Dodgers fans quickly pushed back on social media, labeling Crow-Armstrong’s remarks as “cowardly” and defensive. Some supporters pointed to contrasting perspectives from players like Juan Soto, highlighting the divided opinions on fan culture surrounding the Dodgers. The backlash signals heightened tensions as the two teams prepare for their divisional clash.
The Cubs have also been active this offseason in bolstering their roster, acquiring Edward Cabrera and signing Michael Conforto. These moves suggest the Cubs are positioning themselves as serious contenders heading into the 2024 season, with Crow-Armstrong’s remarks adding fuel to a rivalry likely to draw national attention.
With the Dodgers and Cubs set to face off soon, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see whether Crow-Armstrong’s candid comments impact the atmosphere on the field or in the stands. How both teams manage the rivalry—both on the diamond and in public discourse—could shape the competitive and cultural dynamics between these two MLB franchises moving forward.
Wayne Drehs
Pete Crow-Armstrong
Harvard-Westlake School
Chicago magazine
Chicago Cubs
Sherman Oaks
Los Angeles Dodgers
Chicago
Los Angeles
