There has been a noticeable shift in MLB’s elite pitching ranks this season, with none of last year’s top ten WAR pitchers making a return to the list. Among the emerging stars is Chicago White Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet, whose performance has garnered significant attention and speculation as the trade deadline approaches.
According to a report from Bob Nightengale of USA Today, fifteen teams have already inquired about Crochet’s availability, highlighting his immense appeal across the league. At just 25 years old, Crochet leads MLB with 141 strikeouts, boasting an impressive 12.5 strikeouts per nine innings and a formidable 35.3% strikeout rate.
His dominance extends to leading the American League with a 2.37 FIP over 18 starts and 101 1/3 innings. In his recent outing against the Colorado Rockies, Crochet struck out 11 batters over seven innings, conceding only two runs on five hits, without issuing a single walk.
Crochet’s journey to the pinnacle of pitching excellence has been rapid and unexpected. Drafted by the White Sox in the first round of 2020, he made his MLB debut that same year primarily as a reliever. Despite an impressive 2.82 ERA in 2021 across 54 relief appearances, his progress was hindered by Tommy John surgery in 2022 and subsequent injuries that limited his playing time in 2023. It wasn’t until this season that Crochet transitioned to a starting role, where he has flourished.
Known for his fastball-centric approach, Crochet relies heavily on his four-seamer (55.2% usage) and cutter (26.7%), complemented by a slider (12%) and an occasional changeup against right-handed hitters. His four-seam fastball averages 96.9 mph, with Baseball Savant ranking it as the most valuable fastball in MLB this year with a run value of 20. This pitch mix, typically associated with relievers, has proven effective as Crochet excels in his new role as a starter.
Despite his standout performance, Crochet remains remarkably underpaid with a salary of $800,000 for the 2024 season, his first year of arbitration eligibility. However, future arbitration years (2025-2026) are expected to see substantial increases, reflecting his escalating value.
While the White Sox are open to trading him, negotiations for a contract extension have reportedly stalled, indicating potential uncertainty about his long-term future with the team.
For White Sox fans, Crochet’s emergence evokes memories of another towering left-handed ace, Chris Sale, who also transitioned from reliever to starter with notable success before being traded to the Boston Red Sox in 2016.
Given his age, talent, and team control until 2027, any trade involving Crochet would likely yield a considerable return for the White Sox, sparking intense interest from teams vying for postseason success.
As the July 30 trade deadline approaches, expect a robust bidding war among MLB teams eager to acquire one of the game’s brightest young pitching stars in Garrett Crochet.
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