Front office rumors can be wild, but every once in a while, one breaks through the noise, leaving fans stunned. That’s exactly what happened when a recent report revealed that the Mets—yes, the same team that once traded away a top prospect—wanted him back just two years later. And not in a small way. In 2023, amid a full-blown sell-off, New York quietly asked the Cubs if they’d swap one Pete Alonso for another Pete.

It wasn’t just a random shot in the dark. By that point, Pete Crow-Armstrong had blossomed into a full-blown star in the making. Originally drafted 19th overall by the Mets in 2020, he was dealt to Chicago in a short-sighted move for Javier Báez and Trevor Williams just a year later. Fast forward to 2023—PCA was tearing up Double-A with a .289/.371/.527 slash line, showing elite defense, base running, and big-league poise. Baseball America had him ranked No. 12 overall, and many thought that was still too low. It’s no surprise the Cubs refused to even entertain the call.

And as per SNY’s Andy Martino, the Mets’ proposal never got off the ground. Under GM Billy Epler, they had already moved Scherzer, Verlander, and others in their 2023 fire sale. Alonso wasn’t necessarily on the table, but curiosity got the better of them. They rang the Cubs, floated the idea of a PCA reunion, and were immediately shot down. One exec might’ve even said, “Nice try.” Because truthfully, by then, PCA wasn’t just a prospect—he was the Cubs’ $100M+ golden ticket.

What’s more, the failed Pete Alonso pursuit could have helped the Cubs pivot toward Michael Busch. He is a player who has since become another foundational piece. So in hindsight, it wasn’t just a good non-trade for Chicago—it was a massive win. The kind of decision that keeps front offices employed and fanbases loyal.

While the Mets’ attempt to reel PCA back into their clubhouse fell flat, it’s clear they recognized what the Cubs now fully understand: this kid isn’t just a future star — he might be the one player capable of dethroning MLB’s biggest name.

Pete Crow-Armstrong threatens to crash Ohtani’s MVP three-peat party.

In any other year, putting up a 25-homer, 71-RBI, 27-steal line with Gold Glove-caliber defense would make a player the runaway MVP. But this isn’t just any year, and Pete Crow-Armstrong isn’t chasing just any superstar. He’s up against Shohei Ohtani — the two-way icon chasing his third straight MVP crown. Yet according to ESPN’s Bradford Doolittle, the race isn’t locked just yet. If Ohtani’s production continues to dip, especially at the plate, PCA has a real shot to snatch the spotlight.

Statistically, PCA is mounting a serious case. His .265 average and .847 OPS already put him in elite company, but it’s his defense that’s making heads turn. With 16 Outs Above Average and +13 Defensive Runs Saved, Crow-Armstrong is dominating center field like few others in the game. On top of that, he’s currently leading Ohtani in Wins Above Replacement (WAR) — the ultimate all-in-one value stat. And if he finishes with a rare 40/40 season while flashing leather on highlight reels, it could make things very, very interesting.

Momentum is another factor. Ohtani’s July slump — a .186 average and declining power numbers — has opened the door, even as he works his way back on the mound post-Tommy John surgery. Yes, he’s been nearly flawless in his return, giving up just one run in nine innings. But if voters start leaning toward a “fresh face” and PCA keeps producing, the narrative could shift. It’s the kind of late-season drama MVP races were made for.

From a rejected blockbuster trade proposal to a legitimate MVP chase, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s rise has been nothing short of electric. As the second half unfolds, all eyes will be on whether he can catch Shohei Ohtani and complete one of baseball’s boldest storylines. Stay tuned—this race is far from over.

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