The world of baseball witnessed a heartwarming, full-circle moment when Pete Crow-Armstrong, a highly touted prospect, made his Major League Baseball debut with the Chicago Cubs. But for one special spectator at Coors Field, this wasn’t just another game. Ashley Crow, Pete’s mom, watched with immense pride as her son stepped onto the big league diamond, a scene that mirrored her own starring role in the beloved 1994 baseball movie, “Little Big League.”
Crow-Armstrong’s call-up from Triple-A and appearance in Monday’s game against the Colorado Rockies was a dream realized. He entered as a pinch-runner in the seventh inning, taking over center field for Mike Tauchman. In the ninth, he stepped up to the plate for his first MLB at-bat, executing a sacrifice bunt. The Cubs rallied to secure a 5-4 victory against the Rockies, allowing PCA, as he’s known, to celebrate his debut victory with his biggest fan – his mom.
PCA embraces his mom after his MLB debut
pic.twitter.com/FwFTTau9BP
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) September 12, 2023
This touching embrace between Pete Crow-Armstrong and Ashley Crow resonated deeply, particularly for those familiar with Ashley’s iconic role as Jenny Heywood in “Little Big League.” In the movie, she played the mother of Billy, a 12-year-old boy who unexpectedly becomes the owner and then manager of the Minnesota Twins. Life, in this instance, seemed to playfully imitate art as Ashley watched her real-life son embark on his own baseball journey in the major leagues, not as an owner or manager, but as a player with the Chicago Cubs. The proud mom beamed as she witnessed her son’s hard work and dedication culminate in this significant milestone.
Ashley Crow’s acting career extends beyond “Little Big League.” She is also recognized for her roles in the science fiction thriller “Minority Report” and popular television series such as “Supernatural” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” showcasing her versatility as an actress. Adding to the family’s Hollywood connection, Pete’s father, Matthew John Armstrong, also shares an acting background. Matthew and Ashley both appeared in the NBC superhero drama “Heroes.” Interestingly, Matthew, who grew up in Illinois and was a standout football player in high school, has humorously addressed his resemblance to the GEICO caveman in the past.
PCA’s dad Matthew John Armstrong, “For the record, I am not the GEICO caveman.” lmao pic.twitter.com/01NZWzcI3V
— Aldo Soto (@AldoSoto21) September 12, 2023
Pete Crow-Armstrong’s debut is more than just a personal achievement; it’s a captivating narrative woven with threads of Hollywood nostalgia and genuine family pride. As he continues his career with the Chicago Cubs, it’s clear that he has a strong support system, including a mom who has already played a significant role in baseball history, albeit on the silver screen.
