White Sox Plan to Trade Garrett Crochet This Offseason
In a move that could significantly alter their pitching lineup, the Chicago White Sox are reportedly set to trade Garrett Crochet during the upcoming offseason. As the offseason chatter intensifies, a rival evaluator at the recent GM Meetings made it clear: "They're going to trade him this winter. It's not a matter of if. It's a question of when." This declaration underscores the near inevitability of Crochet's departure from the team.
Crochet's Impressive Performance
Garrett Crochet, a key figure in the White Sox's rotation at just 25 years of age, has displayed remarkable potential. With two years remaining under team control, Crochet pitched 146 innings in the 2024 season, maintaining an ERA of 3.58. However, his performance metrics suggest he was even better than his ERA indicates. Crochet recorded a Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) of 2.69 and an expected ERA of 2.83, while his deserved run average stood at an impressive 2.75. These advanced metrics highlight Crochet's effectiveness, positioning him as a standout performer in the league.
Breakdown of Crochet's Arsenal
In 2024, Crochet continued to evolve as a pitcher, integrating new elements into his repertoire. He added a cutter to his pitch arsenal, clocking in the low 90s, and introduced an upper-90s sinker late in the season. This sinker was particularly effective, with opponents batting a meager .154 against it. Crochet's skillful deployment of these pitches was evident as he threw a total of 50 sinkers, 36 of which came in his last three starts.
His adaptability and strategic pitch selection contributed to a formidable 35.1% strikeout rate among pitchers with at least 140 innings in 2024. Combined with a disciplined 5.5% walk rate, Crochet demonstrated control and precision, consistently challenging opposing batters.
Impact Beyond the Mound
Despite Crochet’s impressive individual performances, the White Sox struggled defensively throughout 2024, statistically ranking as the worst team in the league. This defensive deficiency may have further pressured the franchise to consider bold changes, including potential trades, to revamp their roster.
Crochet's role extended beyond his numbers, as internal dynamics also played a significant part in the decision to trade him. Seen in his demand for a contract extension as a condition to participate in postseason play, the tension perhaps influenced management's consideration for moving him out of Chicago.
Future Financial Implications
Financial considerations also weigh on Crochet’s potential trade. After earning $800,000 in 2024, Crochet's salary is projected to rise to $2.9 million in 2025. With two years remaining under team control, securing his long-term services might imply a hefty financial commitment, a factor the White Sox may be keen to avoid given their current strategic direction.
Crochet's journey has not been without challenges. The promising southpaw missed the entire 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery, but his impressive comeback further underpins his resilience and potential as a valuable asset for any team willing to invest in his future.
Trade Speculation and Conclusion
As the White Sox prepare to enter the offseason, the looming decision to trade Crochet signifies a pivotal moment for the franchise. His performance on the mound suggests he could be a valuable acquisition for teams seeking to boost their pitching strength. However, with the intricate interplay of performance dynamics, financial considerations, and team strategies, the forthcoming trade may symbolize more than a mere roster change.
For the White Sox and Garrett Crochet, this offseason promises to be a critical juncture. While the specifics of the trade remain under wraps for now, one aspect appears certain: Garrett Crochet's time wearing a White Sox jersey may soon come to an end, ushering in a new chapter for both player and team alike.