In an offseason that is already sparking interest across the Major League Baseball landscape, the Chicago White Sox are set to make waves with a significant roster move. Garrett Crochet, one of their standout pitchers, is expected to be at the center of a high-stakes trade during the upcoming offseason. Speculation swirls around the timing and the potential strategy behind this anticipated trade.
"They're going to trade him this winter. It's not a matter of if. It's a question of when," noted a rival evaluator at the GM Meetings. This points to an unambiguous strategy by the Chicago White Sox, who appear poised to capitalize on Crochet's value.
Garrett Crochet's Stellar 2024 Performance
Crochet's on-field performance in 2024 showcased his formidable talent, making him a highly coveted asset in the trading market. Over 146 innings, he maintained a 3.58 ERA—a solid figure by any measure. However, it is his advanced metrics that garnered attention. With a Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) of 2.69 and an expected ERA of 2.83, Crochet demonstrated an ability to control game outcomes remarkably. Further supporting his prowess, his deserved run average stood at an impressive 2.75.
Among pitchers who hurled at least 140 innings in 2024, Crochet topped the charts with a remarkable 35.1% strikeout rate, illustrating his effectiveness at the mound. Additionally, his 5.5% walk rate further underscores his exceptional control, positioning him as one of the premier talents in the league.
Evolution of Crochet's Pitching Arsenal
Crochet's rapid ascent in the pitching ranks can be attributed to his diverse arsenal, which he adapted over the season. In a strategic move, he added a cutter to his repertoire, pitching it in the low 90s. Towards the latter part of the season, Crochet introduced an upper-90s sinker, which quickly became a game-changer. Opponents found his sinker especially challenging, managing a mere .154 batting average against it. Crochet strategically used this pitch in just the right moments—throwing it 50 times in total, with 36 appearances in his final three starts, adding an element of unpredictability that many batters struggled to counter.
The White Sox and Their Defensive Woes
Despite Crochet's individual successes, the White Sox struggled defensively throughout 2024, earning the unfortunate distinction of being statistically the worst defensive team in the league. This stark reality may have played a part in the front office's decision-making, prompting them to consider trades that could potentially fortify both their defensive and offensive lineup in the seasons to come.
Intriguingly, Crochet demonstrated a unique effectiveness against right-handed batters, a rare feat that added to his value. However, with two years left of team control and his salary projected to rise from $800,000 in 2024 to $2.9 million in 2025, his contract demands and potential extensions create factors that the White Sox must weigh carefully.
The Impact of Missing 2022
Garrett Crochet's story includes a notable comeback narrative, as he missed the entire 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery. His remarkable recovery and subsequent performance in 2024 add layers to his appeal, showcasing resilience and adaptability—qualities that teams value greatly.
The anticipation surrounding Crochet's trade is a testament to his talent and market dynamics, where teams are keen to bolster their pitching staff with a player of his caliber. While Chicago navigates these crucial decisions, the baseball world watches with bated breath, aware that any move involving Crochet could shift the balance of power in the league.
As the offseason trade discussions unfold, the certainty of a trade may transform into a new chapter for Crochet, offering him a chance to continue his upward trajectory and make a monumental impact wherever he lands next.