In what is shaping up to be an intriguing offseason for the Chicago White Sox, the team is reportedly preparing to trade one of its more promising arms, Garrett Crochet. At 25 years old, Crochet has emerged as a formidable force in the White Sox rotation, but tensions surrounding contract negotiations may lead to his departure.
Impressive Statistics in 2024
Garrett Crochet's 2024 season was nothing short of impressive. The left-hander pitched 146 innings, posting a 3.58 ERA. Underlying metrics suggest he was even better than his ERA indicates. With a Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) of 2.69, an expected ERA of 2.83, and a deserved run average of 2.75, Crochet showed he could compete with the best in the league.
Notably, Crochet led all pitchers with at least 140 innings in 2024 with a strikeout rate of 35.1%, coupled with a low 5.5% walk rate, showcasing his ability to dominate the strike zone. His arsenal expanded with the addition of a low 90s cutter, and he introduced an upper-90s sinker later in the season. Opponents struggled against these pitches, particularly the sinker, against which they batted just .154. Crochet utilized this pitch effectively, throwing it 50 times, with the majority coming in his last three starts.
The Dilemma of Contract Negotiations
Despite his on-field success, Crochet's future with the White Sox has been clouded by contractual hurdles. Reports suggest he demanded a contract extension as a prerequisite to participate in postseason play. His salary, which stood at $800,000 in 2024, is projected to jump to $2.9 million in 2025. This substantial increase, combined with the demand for a long-term deal, seems to have set the stage for a potential parting of ways.
A rival evaluator at the GM Meetings encapsulated the sentiment around the league, stating, "They're going to trade him this winter. It's not a matter of if. It's a question of when." This sense of inevitability highlights the high stakes involved in the White Sox's decision-making process.
Potential Trade Factors
The White Sox's decision to consider trading Crochet could also be influenced by their lackluster defensive metrics in 2024. Statistically the worst defensive team in the league, the White Sox might seek a shakeup that includes acquiring prospects or players who can bolster their defensive line-up.
Crochet's adaptability in 2024, particularly his effectiveness against right-handed batters compared to left-handed ones, adds another layer to his trade value. Teams interested in enhancing their pitching staff with a versatile and powerful left-handed pitcher will undoubtedly find Crochet appealing. His recovery from Tommy John surgery, which caused him to miss the entire 2022 season, also stands as a testament to his resilience and capacity for adaptation.
A Look Ahead
As the offseason unfolds, the White Sox face critical decisions. Balancing the desire to retain a pitcher of Crochet's caliber against financial constraints and the player's own demands will be a challenging dilemma. The potential trade of Garrett Crochet is poised to be a focal point, not just for the White Sox, but for teams across the league evaluating their own needs and prospects.
The outcome will depend on multiple variables, including the willingness of other teams to meet Crochet's contract expectations and the White Sox's evaluation of return trade offers. What remains certain is that Crochet's future in Major League Baseball will draw considerable interest, setting the stage for a potentially high-profile move that could significantly alter the White Sox's roster dynamics.