The 2024 MLB trade deadline is coming up next Tuesday, July 30, and Chicago White Sox ace Garrett Crochet is emerging as a top trade target. With the White Sox struggling at the bottom of the standings with a 27-77 record, and unlikely to contend before Crochet reaches free agency after 2026, it makes sense for them to explore trading him while his value is at its peak.
However, any team acquiring Crochet will need to be cautious about his workload. This season, he has already pitched a career-high 111 1/3 innings, surpassing his previous high of 65 innings from his sophomore year in college. This marks his first year as a starter after transitioning from a reliever role and recovering from Tommy John surgery. His increased workload raises concerns.
Garrett Crochet plan with White Sox is to pitch normal workload as starter until end of regular season. If traded would need extension to pitch in October. He won’t move to bullpen and will not take any break. Views starter routine as best for health.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 25, 2024
Despite these concerns, Crochet’s strong performance and two years of team control make him a valuable asset. He is reportedly seeking a contract extension to secure his availability for postseason play, leveraging his workload as part of his negotiation strategy.
Teams interested in Crochet might use this extension request as a bargaining chip to lower their offers, given the uncertainty around his postseason availability. Nonetheless, Crochet’s desire for an extension highlights his leverage and the importance of his presence.
Recent pitchers who signed extensions two years before free agency, such as Kyle Freeland, Mitch Keller, and Pablo López, received substantial deals. Crochet’s current performance and control years could justify a similar or even larger contract.
The White Sox’s decision to make Crochet a starter this year was initially met with skepticism due to his limited experience and injury history. Yet, Crochet has exceeded expectations with a 3.07 ERA and leading the league with 157 strikeouts. The White Sox’s performance improves significantly with him on the mound, as they are 7-14 in his starts compared to 20-63 in games without him. Given his impressive stats and the White Sox’s position as sellers, Crochet is likely the top trade candidate leading up to the deadline.