In a move that could reshape their pitching roster, the Chicago White Sox are preparing to trade Garrett Crochet in the upcoming offseason. Known for his commanding presence on the mound, Crochet has become a central figure in trade discussions with just two years left under team control. The 25-year-old pitcher recently demanded a contract extension as leverage to contribute in the postseason, adding another layer to the unfolding offseason narrative.
Impressive 2024 Performance
In 2024, Crochet showcased his potential, pitching 146 innings and recording a respectable 3.58 ERA. Beyond traditional metrics, his performance was further underscored by an impressive 2.69 Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) and a 2.83 expected ERA. His deserved run average stood at 2.75, indicating his true capabilities on the mound.
The young pitching phenom led all pitchers with at least 140 innings by posting a staggering 35.1% strikeout rate, complemented by a low 5.5% walk rate. These figures reflect Crochet's ability to dominate opposing hitters while maintaining control, which only cements his value in potential trade deals.
Expanding Arsenal
This past season, Crochet significantly enhanced his pitching arsenal. He added a cutter, throwing in the low 90s, which complemented his existing repertoire. More notably, he introduced an upper-90s sinker late in the 2024 season, which proved especially effective. Opponents managed a meager .154 batting average against this new pitch. Out of the 50 sinkers thrown, 36 came in his final three starts, signaling Crochet's increasing reliance on this potent delivery.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Crochet's journey back to form after missing the entire 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery has been impressive. However, he faces challenges, including playing for a team that was statistically the worst defensive outfit in 2024. Despite the defensive shortcomings of the White Sox, Crochet's capability to neutralize right-handed batters more effectively than left-handed ones in 2024 gave him an edge over his peers.
Salary Dynamics and Trade Timing
In 2024, Crochet earned a modest $800,000, with projections suggesting a rise to $2.9 million in 2025. This salary dynamics might factor into the White Sox's decision to trade him, possibly allowing them to allocate budget to other areas of need. As a rival evaluator at the GM Meetings emphatically noted, "They're going to trade him this winter. It's not a matter of if. It's a question of when."
While precise timing of the trade remains uncertain, Crochet's compelling 2024 performance has undoubtedly catapulted him into the limelight, making him a valuable asset in the offseason market. As the White Sox weigh their options, teams across Major League Baseball will be closely monitoring the situation, eager to bolster their rotations with Crochet's promising arm.