What happened: Crow-Armstrong opened the scoring with his 34th homer of the season. His two-run 35th followed in the second inning before he completed the milestone later in the game.
Why it matters: The outburst strengthens Crow-Armstrong’s case in a tightening National League MVP race. Chicago entered Saturday 76-59 and second in its division.
By the numbers: Crow-Armstrong’s three homers raised his season total from 33 to 36. The first was a leadoff shot, and the second drove in two runs.
What to watch: The final score will determine how much the performance helps Chicago’s postseason position.