The Chicago Cubs got a rude awakening in Game 1 of the NL Wild Card series on Tuesday. The San Diego Padres trounced them 8-0.
One of the most controversial moments came in the 6th and 8th innings. With the Cubs already up 8-0, Pete Crow-Armstrong came to the plate. In the 6th, Crow-Armstrong faced Padres' starter, Michael King. On a 1-2 count, third-base umpire Bill Miller called Crow-Armstrong out on strike three.
The ball was high and away, and Crow-Armstrong didn't follow through, but the umpire called him out anyway. Naturally, Crow-Armstrong was upset about the call.
Two innings later, he faced left-handed reliever Yuki Matsui. Crow-Armstrong struck out with the ball in the dirt, with Miller saying he swung through. Frustrated, Crow-Armstrong argued with Miller, showing him his swing and saying he didn't follow through.
This led to a flurry of debate on social media.
One fan defended Crow-Armstrong while acknowledging he was in a good position to be ejected.
“I don’t think PCA swung here, but definitely tested his luck with the umpire after the fact.
Good on the ump for understanding the moment and not tossing him.”@TheWrigleyWire posted on X, formerly Twitter.
Article Continues BelowThen, one unapologetic Cub fan vehemently criticized Crow-Armstrong for arguing with Miller.
“Pete Crow-Armstrong's behavior last night was an absolute disgrace, seen by millions of fans all over the world.
His demonstrative reaction and abuse towards an umpire, multiple times, who made correct calls, again highlighted his immaturity.
Such a terrible look for baseball!” @DanClarkSports posted.
Altogether, Crow-Armstrong went 0-for-3 with a walk. This comes just after Crow-Armstrong joined the exclusive 40/40 club and is on the verge of winning MVP.
Game 2 is scheduled for Wednesday at 7:00 pm PST/9:00 pm CST/10:00 pm EST at Petco Park in San Diego.

