Chicago White Sox to Trade Garrett Crochet: An Offseason Shift Looms
In a move set to reshape the Chicago White Sox's pitching landscape, the team is planning to trade Garrett Crochet in the upcoming offseason. At just 25 years old, Crochet has become a pivotal figure in the White Sox's rotation. Despite his contributions, it appears that his future with the team is drawing to a close.
According to a rival evaluator who attended the GM Meetings, "They're going to trade him this winter. It's not a matter of if. It's a question of when." The sentiment underscores the certainty with which the White Sox intends to part ways with their promising pitcher.
The Rise of Crochet
Garrett Crochet's journey with the White Sox has been marked by both promise and impressive statistics. In 2024, he threw 146 innings, maintaining a commendable 3.58 ERA. His underlying metrics were even more impressive: a 2.69 Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP), an expected ERA of 2.83, and a deserved run average of 2.75, showcasing his ability to keep runs off the board effectively.
In a year where he led pitchers with over 140 innings by striking out an impressive 35.1% of batters, Crochet also demonstrated remarkable control, allowing a mere 5.5% walk rate. This balance of power and precision has made him an attractive asset for teams in search of a reliable left-handed arm.
A Pitcher’s Arsenal Expands
2024 also witnessed Crochet expanding his pitching repertoire, adding a cutter in the low 90s and an upper-90s sinker to his arsenal. The introduction of the sinker, particularly, was a late-season tactic that paid dividends. Opponents struggled against this new pitch, batting just .154. In total, Crochet delivered 50 sinkers, with 36 coming in his final three starts, indicating a strategic adjustment that enhanced his effectiveness, especially against right-handed batters.
Contract Talks and Team Dynamics
Despite his on-field successes, Crochet's off-field interactions with the team have been less harmonious. He reportedly demanded a contract extension as a prerequisite for participating in the postseason, a move that may have accelerated the team's decision to enter the trade market. Currently, Crochet remains under team control for two more years, having earned $800,000 in 2024 with a salary projected to balloon to $2.9 million in 2025.
The White Sox’s Defensive Woes
Another layer to Crochet's situation is the broader defensive issue plaguing the White Sox. Regrettably holding the distinction as the statistically worst defensive team in 2024, the club's defensive struggles would have added pressure to pitchers like Crochet, often requiring them to work harder to achieve outs and protect lead margins.
The Aftermath of Tommy John
Crochet's career trajectory was not without its challenges. He missed the entire 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery, a major setback for any pitcher. However, his successful return and subsequent stellar performance spoke volumes about his resilience and natural ability.
The impending trade of Garrett Crochet marks both an end and a beginning. For the White Sox, it represents a strategic decision to perhaps rebalance their roster and address their pitching and defensive soft spots. For Crochet, it could mean a fresh start with a team that may be willing to meet his contract aspirations and fully utilize his dynamic arm.