Garrett Crochet’s Trade, Contract Demands, and the Road to Becoming a Starter

The Trade and the Contract Buzz

In December, the baseball world took notice when the Chicago White Sox traded young pitcher Garrett Crochet to the Boston Red Sox. The move marked a new chapter for the 25-year-old, who quickly made headlines again by expressing his desire for a long-term contract extension with his new team. While some were surprised by his bold request, especially given the White Sox’s unsuccessful attempts to trade him before last July’s deadline, Crochet has been clear about his goals. despite being on an innings restriction in 2023, he managed to log an impressive 146 innings last season, showcasing his growing durability. With Opening Day just around the corner, Crochet is expected to take the mound as one of the Red Sox’s key starters, and he’s using the opportunity to address the buzz surrounding his contract demands.

Addressing the "Greedy" Label

During an appearance on the popular podcast Baseball Isn’t Boring, Crochet opened up about the perception that his contract demands were driven by greed. "I know when it came out, a lot of people were looking at it as greedy," he admitted. However, he quickly clarified that his push for an extension was not solely about money or security. Instead, it was rooted in his desire to establish himself as a full-time starter and shake off the label of being a high-end reliever. Crochet’s career has seen him oscillate between roles, with 54 relief appearances in 2021 alone, followed by limited outings in 2020, 2022, and 2023 due to injuries. Now, he’s determined to prove that he belongs in the starting rotation for the long haul.

The Journey from Reliever to Starter

Crochet’s transition to a starting role began in earnest last season, when he made 32 starts and finished the year with a solid 3.58 ERA. This marked a significant turning point in his career, as he moved away from the bullpen and embraced the challenges of being a starter. For years, teams had viewed him as a potential high-leverage reliever, but Crochet has always believed he has the potential to be more. "I didn’t, by no means, feel like I was demanding [the extension] because I wanted money or security by itself," he explained. "It was more about establishing myself as a starter and getting away from the idea that teams viewed me as a potential high-end reliever."

Health: The Key to His Success

Crochet’s ability to stay healthy has been a critical factor in his development as a starter. Reflecting on his past, he acknowledged the setbacks he’s faced, including a flexor strain in 2020, a back injury in 2021, and a season-ending ailment in 2022. However, last season marked a breakthrough. "I was having a good year, and I was staying healthy for the first time in my career," he said. This newfound consistency allowed him to find a rhythm and perform at his best every fifth day. Now, with a structured routine in place, Crochet feels confident in his ability to maintain this level of performance.

Looking Ahead to Free Agency and Beyond

Barring a contract extension with the Red Sox, Crochet is set to become a free agent after the 2026 season. While he hasn’t ruled out the possibility of staying with Boston long-term, he’s clear about his priorities. "Why should I jeopardize that for a team I don’t really owe anything to?" he asked, emphasizing the importance of securing a deal that reflects his value as a starting pitcher. At just 25 years old, Crochet is still in the early stages of his career, and he’s determined to make the most of the opportunities ahead.

The Bigger Picture: Crochet’s Journey in MLB’s Evolving Market

Crochet’s story is a microcosm of the challenges and opportunities facing young pitchers in today’s MLB. As teams increasingly prioritize roster flexibility and cost control, players like Crochet are navigating the complexities of establishing themselves in specific roles while also securing their financial futures. His journey from reliever to starter, coupled with his openness about his contract desires, highlights the delicate balance between personal ambition and organizational expectations. While the Red Sox and their fans wait to see how this chapter unfolds, one thing is certain: Garrett Crochet is ready to take the mound and prove his worth as a starting pitcher in the big leagues.