Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete-Crow Armstrong and Detroit Tigers outfielder Javier Báez shared an incredible moment before Tuesday’s All-Star Game.
The two players, starting in center field for their respective teams, shared a fantastic interaction before the Midsummer Classic at Atlanta’s Truist Park.
“Did you think you’d be playing center field in the All-Star Game,” Crow-Armstrong said.
“Honestly no, and I’m nervous now,” Báez responded. “Hopefully I don’t get burned.”
The moment is naturally poignant for Cubs fans, because it was Báez who was traded to the New York Mets in exchange for Crow-Armstrong during the 2021 season, sending a key piece of the 2016 World Series-champion Cubs to the Big Apple.
Báez had a remarkable run with the Cubs, blasting 140 home runs and driving in 443 RBI’s while earning the nickname “El Mago” for the incredible skill he showed on the basepaths and with his glove.
As the team neared the trade deadline in 2021 however he was traded to the Mets, and ultimately signed a free agent deal with the Detroit Tigers prior to the 2022 season.
He struggled badly during the early stages of his Detroit career, but he has experienced a renaissance this season, with 10 home runs, 39 RBI and a splendid slash line of .275/.310/.442. He’s achieved all of that while learning how to play center field, and he was rewarded by being voted in as a starter for the American League in the All-Star Game.
Crow-Armstrong has absolutely exploded onto the scene this season with the Cubs, slashing .265/.302/.544 with 25 home runs, 71 RBI’s and 27 stolen bases for the North Siders. He has a 5.2 WAR, according to Baseball Reference, which leads the National League.
Now, the two players who were traded for each other have found happiness in their new homes, and they’re set to share the stage together in Atlanta on Tuesday.
First pitch of the All-Star Game is set for 7 p.m., with the game airing on Fox.