Amidst the intriguing moves that symbolize an offseason in flux, the Chicago White Sox are preparing to make significant changes to their roster. News has emerged that the team is planning to trade esteemed pitcher Garrett Crochet, a decision that promises to set the tone for the franchise's repositioning. As whispers at the GM Meetings suggest, "They're going to trade him this winter. It's not a matter of if. It's a question of when," according to a rival evaluator.
Crochet's Stellar 2024 Performance
Garrett Crochet, now 25, has cemented himself as a valuable asset in the White Sox rotation. In the 2024 season, he exhibited a blend of power and precision that elevated his performance to elite levels. Crochet tossed 146 innings, amassing a commendable 3.58 ERA. However, deeper into his metrics reveal an even more dominant narrative: Crochet registered a 2.69 Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP), suggesting his value exceeded what traditional statistics might portray.
His arsenal of pitches saw a notable expansion with the addition of a cutter in the low 90s and an upper-90s sinker, which he incorporated later in the season. His sinker's success was evident with opponents managing a mere .154 batting average against it. In particular, Crochet's tweaking of his game with these new pitches speaks to his adaptability and growth, reinforcing his prowess on the mound. His late-season reliance on the new sinker was palpable as he threw 50 of them, including 36 in his last three starts.
Dominating the Mound
In broader terms, Crochet's statistics paint the picture of a dominant presence on the mound. He led all pitchers with at least 140 innings in 2024 with a 35.1% strikeout rate, a testament to his overwhelming effectiveness in retiring batters. Coupled with a minimal 5.5% walk rate, Crochet maintained an exemplary balance between aggression and control. His expected ERA stood at 2.83, and he achieved a deserved run average of 2.75, further underlining his exceptional season.
Interestingly, Crochet managed to defy conventional norms by being more effective against right-handed batters than against left-handed batters in 2024, a rare but valuable trait for a left-handed pitcher. These elements collectively contribute to a compelling case for Crochet as a critical factor in any team's pitching equation.
The White Sox's Defensive Woes and Financial Context
Yet, despite Crochet's individual brilliance, the White Sox struggled as a defensive unit, statistically ranking as the worst defensive team in 2024. Such deficiencies certainly impacted Crochet's ERA, emphasizing an added uphill battle he faced to maintain his impressive statistics.
Financially, Crochet's standing is set to change. After earning $800,000 in 2024, his salary is projected to escalate to $2.9 million in 2025. This shift, combined with his contractual status—two more years of team control—positions Crochet as an attractive but valuable commodity in the trade market.
The Impetus Behind the Trade
Driving the trade talks is also Crochet's demand for a contract extension as a prerequisite for pitching in the postseason. This stance, while reflective of his confidence and desire for security, also nudges the White Sox towards navigating their future plans without him.
Crochet's career was not devoid of challenges. He missed all of 2022 due to Tommy John surgery, a considerable hurdle for any pitcher. His subsequent return and performance underscore an impressive comeback, highlighting his resilience and potential for contribution to any future team.
As the winter meetings progress and teams assess their needs and assets, Garrett Crochet represents both a promising opportunity and a complex decision. For the Chicago White Sox, moving forward without their versatile pitcher symbolizes a significant move, one reflective of the franchise's broader strategic objectives. Meanwhile, Crochet's next destination might just find themselves securing a pivotal piece of their pitching puzzle, eager to capitalize on his evolution and expertise as the 2025 season looms large on the horizon.