In the world of Major League Baseball, offseasons are often marked by a flurry of trade rumors and player movements, but few narratives stir more interest among fans and analysts alike than a talented pitcher potentially on the trading block. Such is the case for the Chicago White Sox and their 25-year-old pitcher Garrett Crochet. As the offseason approaches, it becomes increasingly evident that the White Sox are preparing to trade Crochet, a decision that seems more a certainty than speculation.
Garrett Crochet, who occupies a significant role in the White Sox's rotation, has shown promising potential over his career. His performance in the 2024 season solidified his status as a key player, logging 146 innings with an earned run average (ERA) of 3.58. More impressively, his Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) of 2.69 and expected ERA of 2.83 indicate that his on-field performance could have been even better under different defensive circumstances. With the White Sox statistically being the worst defensive team in the league in 2024, one can only speculate how Crochet might have fared with more support.
Crochet's prowess on the mound extends beyond conventional metrics. His deserved run average stood at 2.75, a testament to his effective pitching despite playing behind a struggling defense. Crochet topped pitchers with at least 140 innings with an astounding 35.1% strikeout rate while maintaining a commendable walk rate of 5.5%. Such statistics highlight his dominance and ability to control the game from the mound.
The 2024 season was also notable for Crochet's expansion of his pitching repertoire. He introduced a cutter in the low 90s to his arsenal, followed by an upper-90s sinker later in the season. This sinker, in particular, proved highly effective, with opponents mustering a mere .154 batting average against it. Crochet threw this pitch 50 times, with a significant portion—36 in his last three starts—demonstrating its growing role in his pitching strategy.
Despite his on-field success, a cloud hangs over Crochet’s tenure with the White Sox. The talented pitcher made headlines by demanding a contract extension as a prerequisite for participating in postseason play, a bold move that has undoubtedly factored into the front office's decision-making process. Crochet, who earned $800,000 in 2024, is projected to see his salary rise to $2.9 million in 2025. With two years left under team control, his future might align elsewhere, given the White Sox's intent to trade him.
A rival evaluator at the recent GM Meetings emphatically remarked, "They're going to trade him this winter. It's not a matter of if. It's a question of when." Such definitive statements emphasize the inevitability of a trade. The driving forces behind this move might include the White Sox's long-term strategy, Crochet’s contract demands, and the value he provides as a high-caliber pitcher still in his prime.
Crochet's journey in professional baseball hasn't been without its setbacks. He missed the entire 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery but made a strong comeback, which only adds to his allure as a valuable asset for interested teams. His ability to return from significant injury and perform at a high level speaks to both his skill and resilience, traits that will surely be enticing to potential suitors.
As the offseason progresses, the baseball world will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds for Garrett Crochet and the Chicago White Sox. With his compelling mix of talent, potential, and escalating market value, Crochet's imminent departure is a storyline that promises to captivate fans and experts alike. Whether it’s an AL powerhouse or an NL contender that seizes the opportunity, the acquisition of Crochet could shift the balance of power within the league, making this offseason a pivotal moment in shaping the future of several franchises. As the dust settles and decisions are made, one thing remains clear: Garrett Crochet’s next chapter in Major League Baseball awaits, and it is one filled with promise and opportunity.