White Sox Contemplating Trade of Star Pitcher Garrett Crochet
The Chicago White Sox appear poised for significant changes this offseason, with reports indicating that the organization is actively planning to trade their standout pitcher, Garrett Crochet. The left-hander, a key figure in the White Sox rotation, has been the subject of intense discussion among baseball insiders, and it seems only a matter of time before he dons a new uniform.
According to a rival evaluator attending the General Manager Meetings, "They're going to trade him this winter. It's not a matter of if. It's a question of when." This sentiment encapsulates the prevailing belief throughout the league: Crochet's departure from Chicago is imminent, pending the right offer.
Crochet, at just 25 years of age, has two years left under team control, making him an appealing asset for teams looking to bolster their pitching staff. The young southpaw had a remarkable 2024 season, posting a 3.58 ERA over 146 innings. His advanced metrics paint an even brighter picture: a 2.69 Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP), an expected ERA of 2.83, and a deserved run average of 2.75. These figures reflect a pitcher who not only has honed his craft but dominated on the mound.
In 2024, Crochet also led pitchers with at least 140 innings in strikeout rate, a robust 35.1%, and maintained an impressively low walk rate of just 5.5%. These statistics underscore his value as both a power pitcher and a control artist, attributes highly coveted in the modern game.
Adding to his arsenal, Crochet introduced a new cutter in the low 90s and an upper-90s sinker late in the season. His sinker, in particular, proved highly effective against opponents, who batted a mere .154 against it. In total, Crochet deployed his sinker 50 times, with 36 throws coming in his final three appearances of the season, indicating a strategic evolution in his pitching style.
Despite Crochet's impressive individual performance, the White Sox struggled defensively throughout the season. In fact, they were statistically the worst defensive team in 2024, a factor that may have contributed to their decision to explore a trade.
Crochet's preference for facing right-handed batters over left-handed ones further amplifies his strategic significance. His effectiveness against righties enhances his value in trade discussions, as teams search for a versatile pitcher capable of handling diverse lineups.
Financial considerations are undoubtedly part of the equation as well. Crochet earned $800,000 in 2024, with a projected salary increase to $2.9 million in 2025. This impending salary rise, alongside his demand for a contract extension as a condition for postseason pitching, likely influenced the White Sox's decision to entertain trade talks.
Crochet's career has not been without its setbacks. He missed the entire 2022 season recovering from Tommy John surgery, an experience that undoubtedly reshaped his approach and resilience on the mound.
The apparent urgency to trade Crochet this winter suggests the White Sox are focused on reshaping their roster for future competitive prospects. As the offseason progresses, it will be intriguing to observe which teams emerge as potential suitors for Crochet, who offers a rare blend of youth, skill, and untapped potential.
For now, the baseball world waits with bated breath to see where this talented pitcher will continue his career. In a market eager for premium pitching talent, Garrett Crochet stands as one of the most intriguing figures this offseason, with everyone watching to see how this domino will fall.