Pete Crow-Armstrong, Daniel Palencia’s bet made magic happen for Cubs
Historically, the Chicago Cubs bullpen has gone wild for home runs.
It used to be a dance party — the Wrigley Field video board would cut to Cubs relievers dancing up a storm as Tag Team’s ‘Whoomp (There It Is)’ echoed through the stadium.
Now, through 34 games in 2025, the Cubs have hit a NL-leading 52 home runs — and the bullpen may have something to do with it.
[MORE: What we learned as Chicago takes series in Milwaukee]
That much was apparent in Saturday night’s 6-2 win over the Milwaukee Brewers, when Pete Crow-Armstrong launched a three-run shot in the fourth inning for his ninth home run of the year. It was his third in two games, and it sealed a series win for the Cubs.
“Danny (Palencia) asked me what at-bat I was going to hit a homer in,” Crow-Armstrong told Marquee Sports Network’s Taylor McGregor after the game. “I said the second at-bat.”
[MORE: How Cubs’ Pete Crow-Armstrong generates power outside strike zone]
As Crow-Armstrong rounded first base, he rubbed his fingers together so as to make a ‘pay me’ gesture while he shouted enthusiastically towards the bullpen in the outfield.
Crow-Armstrong confirmed that, in a way, he bet on himself for that one.
“Danny was freaking out for good reason over there,” Crow-Armstrong told media in Milwaukee. “The bullpen has some fun, and they definitely call some good ones.”
The replay of Crow-Armstrong’s blast showed a hyped-up Palencia high-fiving his teammates as Crow-Armstrong rounded the bases.
According to Crow-Armstrong, Cubs relievers “drop their hats for home run calls,” making predictions for which hitters will go deep in the game.
[MORE: Pete Crow-Armstrong teams with Cubs coaches for impressive results]
“Danny was smart — he came over and asked me,” Crow-Armstrong said, smiling.
As dangerous as the Cubs have been as a team this season, it hasn’t been strictly business — and it shows in moments like these.
“This whole group is having a lot of fun,” Crow-Armstrong said. “We’re playing really good baseball, and that always makes it easier. It’s been such a joy to come to the park every day with these guys.”
