In what promises to be a pivotal offseason for the Chicago White Sox, the team's future roster is already a topic of intense debate, as discussions at the General Manager Meetings indicate a significant shake-up: left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet is expected to be on the move. According to one rival evaluator, "They're going to trade him this winter. It's not a matter of if. It's a question of when."
The Rising Star
Garrett Crochet, aged 25, has established himself as a vital component of the White Sox's pitching rotation, recognized for his impressive metrics and potential. In the 2024 season, Crochet pitched 146 innings, boasting a respectable 3.58 ERA. Yet, his advanced pitching metrics further underscore his talent. With a Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) of 2.69, an expected ERA of 2.83, and a deserved run average of 2.75, Crochet demonstrated his capability to outmatch mere conventional indicators.
A Stellar Strikeout Artist
Crochet's command and control were unequivocally evident, as he led all pitchers with at least 140 innings with a towering 35.1% strikeout rate in 2024. Meanwhile, his walk rate remained impressively low at 5.5%, showcasing his ability not only to overpower batters but also to maintain discipline on the mound.
New Arsenal in the Making
In 2024, Crochet expanded his pitching repertoire by incorporating a cutter in the low 90s and unveiling an upper-90s sinker later in the season. The latter proved especially effective, with opponents batting a meager .154 against it. Showcasing its efficacy, Crochet threw 50 sinkers during the year, with 36 coming in his final three starts. This development, combined with his prowess against right-handed hitters, indicates a rapidly evolving pitcher with untapped potential.
The Off-Field Dynamics
However, the narrative surrounding Crochet is not confined solely to his on-field achievements. Missing the entire 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery, his comeback has been nothing short of remarkable. Yet, the offseason has woven a complex tapestry of contractual and strategic considerations. Crochet, seeking a more stable future, demanded a contract extension as a prerequisite to pitch in the postseason—a move that adds another layer of intrigue to his situation with the White Sox.
Financially, Crochet earned $800,000 in 2024, with projections suggesting an increase to $2.9 million in 2025. These figures are substantial but underscore the wider financial strategies and constraints the White Sox must navigate, especially with Crochet still having two years left under team control.
Defensive Woes Amplify Trade Considerations
Compounding the complexity of Crochet's fate is the White Sox's dismal defensive performance in 2024, statistically ranking as the league's worst. For a pitcher excelling in controlling contact, backing by a stronger defense could significantly enhance his already noteworthy numbers. This defensive deficiency perhaps pressures the White Sox to explore rebalancing their roster through strategic trades.
The speculation of Crochet being traded doesn’t solely hinge on his potential conflicts with the team’s hierarchical strategies. His value is at an all-time high, fueled by his ability to perform against the odds in an unforgiving defensive context. Trading Crochet could hence bring the White Sox a significant return: fresh defensive talent or additional prospects to fortify the team's broader ambitions.
While internal whispers and external evaluations converge on the belief that Crochet's tenure with the White Sox may be coming to a close, the full impact of such a decision hinges on how the White Sox front office weighs immediate benefits against long-term potential. As the offseason unfolds, Garrett Crochet has become one of baseball's most intriguing figures—a pitcher whose future continues to provoke both speculation and anticipation.