The label heavy cruiser came only with the 1930 London treaty classification based on gun size. In its original 1920s context, Pensacola was conceived as a scouting cruiser whose weapons could discourage pursuit or help it break contact. Fighting for information was undesirable because combat disclosed the scout's position and intentions. Even quickly defeating a small opponent could create a larger operational ripple than observing at distance and withdrawing unseen.
Chapter · 12:28-13:42
Pensacola as a scout rather than a fighting cruiser
Pensacola's 8-inch guns were meant to deter or escape interference while scouting, not necessarily to seek cruiser battles.