Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong has stirred up some controversy with recent comments about Los Angeles Dodgers fans, contrasting their engagement with the game to the passionate support he’s experienced in Chicago. The 23-year-old, who grew up in Los Angeles as the son of a Cubs fan, didn’t hold back when discussing the differences between the two fanbases.
Crow-Armstrong’s remarks, made during an interview with Chicago Magazine, highlighted a perceived disparity in the level of dedication and attentiveness between Cubs fans and those who support the Dodgers. This isn’t the first time a player has commented on the differences in atmosphere between baseball cities, particularly contrasting those in colder climates with those in Southern California.
“I love Chicago more and more,” Crow-Armstrong said. “It’s just an incredible city. The people are great. They grant a s—. They aren’t just baseball fans who go to the game like Dodgers fans to take pictures or whatever. They are paying attention. They care.”
The comments approach as a surprise given Crow-Armstrong’s upbringing in Los Angeles. His father, a Cubs fan, reportedly imposed two rules on him growing up: he couldn’t root for the Dodgers and he couldn’t root for the Cardinals, as detailed in a September article he wrote for The Players’ Tribune. Despite attending Dodgers games as a child, he maintained his allegiance to the Cubs.
Pete Crow-Armstrong, seen here braving the frigid conditions of a January Bears game. (Kara Durrette via Getty Images)
The remarks have resonated with Cubs fans, particularly after Crow-Armstrong’s breakout 2025 campaign. The Dodgers, however, consistently lead Major League Baseball in attendance. In 2025, the Dodgers drew over 4 million fans – 4,008,783 to be exact – a franchise record, exceeding the Chicago Cubs’ attendance of 3,252,887 by nearly 600,000, according to data from DodgersWay.com. Their average attendance per game was 49,357, compared to the Cubs’ 37,259.
This isn’t an isolated incident. Taking aim at Southern California sports fans has become a tradition for teams and players from cities that pride themselves on their passionate, working-class fanbases, especially those in colder climates. The sentiment often centers around the perception that fans in warmer regions have other entertainment options and aren’t as singularly focused on their sports teams.
Crow-Armstrong’s comments also come as he discusses his future with the Cubs, expressing a desire to remain in Chicago long-term. He is currently seeking a contract extension, and his embrace of the city and its fans is likely a strategic move to endear himself further to the North Side faithful.
@petecrowarmstrong sounds upset that fans don’t take pics with him #dodgers #viral #trending #love #instagood … pic.twitter.com/DVIB5S9kXQ7
— TheRealDodgerHogs (@TheRealDodgerHogs) February 24, 2026
The reaction to Crow-Armstrong’s comments has been largely positive in Chicago, with fans appreciating his outspoken support for the city and its baseball culture. It remains to be seen if this will influence contract negotiations, but it has undoubtedly solidified his status as a fan favorite.
As Crow-Armstrong continues to establish himself as a key player for the Cubs, his connection with the Chicago fanbase will be crucial. The next step will be to see how his performance on the field translates into continued success for the team and further strengthens his bond with the city he now calls home.
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