The Chicago White Sox Eye Trade Possibilities for Garrett Crochet
The Chicago White Sox are reportedly set to shake up their roster this offseason, with plans to trade promising left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet. A source close to the discussions at the recent GM Meetings noted, "They're going to trade him this winter. It's not a matter of if. It's a question of when." This bold move signals a significant shift in the team's strategy as they navigate a rebuilding phase following a challenging season.
Garrett Crochet, at 25 years old, has established himself as a potent force on the mound. The 2024 season saw him pitching a solid 146 innings with a respectable 3.58 ERA. Advanced metrics bolster Crochet's on-field credentials; he posted a 2.69 Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) and an expected ERA of 2.83. His deserved run average stood at an impressive 2.75, a testament to the effectiveness of his pitching beyond the traditional ERA statistic.
One of the standout aspects of Crochet’s game last season was his striking ability. Among pitchers with at least 140 innings, he led with a phenomenal 35.1% strikeout rate, highlighting his ability to outmaneuver batters consistently. His control was equally notable, with a walk rate of just 5.5%, demonstrating his command over the strike zone.
In 2024, Crochet added new dimensions to his arsenal, debuting a low-90s cutter and introducing an upper-90s sinker later in the season. The sinker proved to be a particularly lethal tool; opponents batted a mere .154 against it. This pitch became increasingly prominent towards the end of his season, with Crochet throwing 36 of his 50 total sinkers in the last three starts.
Crochet's Role and the Defensive Struggles
Despite his impressive stats, Crochet's journey with the White Sox has been turbulent. A significant turning point came when he demanded a contract extension as a condition to pitch in the postseason. This move may have contributed to the team's decision to explore trade options. Crochet is currently under team control for another two years, having earned $800,000 in 2024, with his salary projected to rise to $2.9 million in 2025, a price point that may affect the trade dynamics.
His performance came against the backdrop of playing for statistically the worst defensive team in 2024. The White Sox's defensive woes may have inflated Crochet's numbers and impacted his in-game efficiency. Notably, Crochet was more effective against right-handed batters than left-handed ones, showcasing his adaptability and skill in challenging matchups.
Crochet's journey has not been without its setbacks. He missed the entire 2022 season recovering from Tommy John surgery, yet his robust return to play in subsequent seasons highlighted his resilience and determination. These qualities, coupled with his track record, make him a valuable asset for teams looking to bolster their pitching rotations.
Implications for the White Sox and Crochet
The decision to consider trading Crochet indicates a potential rebuild or retooling phase for the White Sox. Letting go of a young and talented pitcher might be part of a broader strategy to realign the team’s dynamics and improve areas, particularly defense, that were subpar last season. For Crochet, a move to a new team could provide fresh opportunities to leverage his skills and grow within a new organizational structure.
As the offseason approaches, the situation remains fluid, with many eyes in the baseball community watching how the White Sox navigate this critical period. The prospect of trading Crochet is not just a sign of immediate roster changes but a broader reflection of the team’s long-term vision. The forthcoming decisions will likely shape both Crochet's career trajectory and the future competitiveness of the White Sox in the league.