Garrett Crochet has quickly become a name to watch in Major League Baseball. From his early days in high school to his current role with the Chicago White Sox, Crochet’s journey has been anything but ordinary. This article takes a deep dive into his career, examining whether he can still be considered a rookie and what the future holds for this promising pitcher.
Key Takeaways
- Garrett Crochet’s transition from high school standout to MLB pitcher has been marked by significant achievements and challenges.
- Despite dealing with major injuries like Tommy John surgery and a shoulder strain, Crochet has shown resilience and determination.
- Crochet’s impressive performance during Spring Training earned him the role of Opening Day starter for the Chicago White Sox in 2024.
- His 2024 season statistics indicate that Crochet has the potential to be a top-tier starting pitcher in the league.
- Trade rumors suggest that Crochet could be a valuable asset for contenders, although the White Sox might prefer to keep him for their long-term plans.
Garrett Crochet’s Early Years and College Career
High School Achievements
Garrett Nolan Crochet was born on June 21, 1999, in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. During his high school years, Crochet quickly made a name for himself with his impressive pitching skills. He was known for his fastball, which often left batters stunned. His high school achievements set the stage for his future in baseball.
College Performance at Tennessee
Crochet continued to shine at the University of Tennessee. His college performance was nothing short of spectacular. He became a key player for the Tennessee Volunteers, showcasing his talent and dedication. His time at Tennessee solidified his reputation as a top prospect.
Draft Day: Becoming a White Sox
In 2020, Garrett Crochet’s hard work paid off when he was drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the first round, with the 11th overall pick. This marked the beginning of his professional career and a new chapter in his baseball journey.
Garrett Crochet’s journey from high school standout to college star and finally to a professional player with the White Sox is a testament to his talent and determination.
Transition to the Major Leagues
Debut Season Highlights
Garrett Crochet made his MLB debut with the Chicago White Sox in 2020, quickly showcasing his talent. He struck out eight batters in his first six innings, making a strong impression. His fastball, often reaching 100 mph, became a key weapon in his arsenal.
Challenges and Setbacks
Despite his early success, Crochet faced several challenges. His 12.7 percent walk rate out of the bullpen highlighted areas needing improvement. Bumps in the road were expected, but the key was whether these setbacks would be manageable enough to aid his development.
Role in the Bullpen
Crochet’s role in the bullpen was crucial for the White Sox. He provided much-needed depth and flexibility, often being called upon in high-pressure situations. His ability to handle these moments demonstrated his potential to become a reliable pitcher for the team.
The Impact of Injuries on Crochet’s Career
Tommy John Surgery
Garrett Crochet’s journey in the MLB has been significantly shaped by injuries, starting with Tommy John surgery. This major procedure sidelined him for the entire 2022 season, forcing him to focus on rehabilitation and recovery. The surgery was a turning point, as it required extensive physical therapy and a cautious approach to returning to the mound.
Shoulder Strain and Recovery
In addition to his elbow issues, Crochet also dealt with a shoulder strain that further complicated his career. This injury occurred during the 2023 season, limiting his appearances and affecting his performance. Despite these setbacks, Crochet remained determined to return stronger. He spent the offseason working diligently to regain his form and prepare for the upcoming challenges.
Managing Workload and Expectations
Managing Crochet’s workload has been a critical aspect of his career post-injuries. The White Sox have been cautious, monitoring his innings and ensuring he doesn’t overexert himself. This careful management is reminiscent of how they handled Carlos Rodón in 2021, who also faced similar injury challenges. Crochet’s ability to adapt and perform under these constraints has been impressive, showcasing his resilience and dedication to the sport.
"I suppose when I made those statements I felt like I belonged in the rotation. At the same time, I was unproven," said Crochet after striking out four in four innings during a limited role. This quote highlights his confidence and the ongoing journey to establish himself as a reliable pitcher despite the hurdles.
The impact of these injuries on Crochet’s career cannot be understated. They have not only tested his physical limits but also his mental fortitude. However, his perseverance and commitment to overcoming these obstacles continue to define his path in the MLB.
Spring Training and the Move to Starting Pitcher
Spring Training Performance
Garrett Crochet’s spring training performance has been nothing short of impressive. Playing 20 pounds leaner and regularly hitting the high-90s, Crochet has shown great results. He struck out 10 batters and walked none in 7⅓ scoreless innings. His fastball has looked dominant, which is both the jewel of his profile and a separating weapon at its best.
Adjusting to a Starter’s Routine
Starting is a totally different ballgame compared to relieving. Getting three outs while facing three different hitters once at a time is just so different than getting fifteen outs while facing nine different hitters multiple times. Crochet has spent the whole offseason training to be a starter, but it’s his first time back in that routine since his sophomore year of college. He mentioned that once you get to the two-up phase, three-ups come a lot easier. It’s just getting used to the sitting down, getting back up, and throwing.
White Sox’s Decision and Expectations
The White Sox have named Garrett Crochet as the Opening Day starter, making the most interesting choice they can for the honor. This decision straddles the fence in providing someone the fan base has been waiting for years to see the full capabilities of, while also turning over a new leaf. The White Sox are prepared to have Crochet be a fully-fledged member of the rotation, but someone they monitor closely. They are trying to lean into this new player development concept of rewarding the guys who look the most electric in camp.
Garrett Crochet’s 2024 Season Performance
Opening Day Start
To the surprise of many, Garrett Crochet was named the Opening Day starter for the Chicago White Sox. This decision marked a significant milestone in his career, as he transitioned from a bullpen role to a starting pitcher. Crochet’s performance on Opening Day set the tone for his season, showcasing his potential as a reliable starter.
Season Statistics and Highlights
Throughout the 2024 season, Crochet has been nothing short of impressive. Here are some key statistics from his season so far:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| ERA | 3.02 |
| WHIP | 0.93 |
| Strikeouts | 141 |
| Innings Pitched | 18 |
One of the standout moments of his season was when Garrett Crochet works through four innings while striking out four and only allowing a run during his start against the A’s. This performance highlighted his ability to dominate on the mound and keep opposing hitters at bay.
Comparisons to Other Starters
When comparing Crochet to other starters in the league, it’s clear that he has established himself as a high-end MLB starter. Despite his limited experience, his expected metrics are strong, and he continues to improve with each start. His ability to consistently deliver quality outings has made him a valuable asset to the White Sox rotation.
Garrett Crochet’s first 2 career MLB starts:
13 innings2 runs allowed
16 strikeouts
1 walk
0.69 WHIP
Certified starting pitcher.
Crochet’s performance this season has not only solidified his role as a starter but also increased his market value, making him a potential target for other teams looking to bolster their rotation. However, the White Sox may choose to keep him as a cornerstone of their pitching staff for years to come.
Future Prospects and Trade Rumors
Potential Trade Destinations
Garrett Crochet’s name has been buzzing in trade rumors, with several teams showing interest. The San Diego Padres are one of the top contenders. They might offer a package including LHP Robby Snelling, SS Leodalis De Vries, and OF Homer Bush Jr. This deal would give the White Sox a talented lefty and a promising shortstop.
Another team in the mix is the Baltimore Orioles. They need starting pitching and could offer a top prospect like Samuel Basallo. Basallo is a 19-year-old who has already reached Double-A and is highly regarded in the baseball community.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are also potential suitors. They have a deep farm system and could offer a mix of young talent. OF Josue De Paula and LHP Justin Wrobleski are names that have come up in discussions. De Paula has shown great potential, recently earning a promotion to High-A.
White Sox’s Long-Term Plans
The White Sox are in a rebuilding phase and are looking to acquire young talent to bolster their farm system. Trading Crochet could bring in multiple high-end prospects, which aligns with their long-term strategy. They are particularly interested in players who can make an immediate impact at the MLB level.
Market Value and Arbitration
Crochet’s market value is high, given his performance and potential. He is under team control for several more years, making him an attractive option for teams looking to add a young, controllable arm. Arbitration will play a role in his future salary, but for now, his cost is relatively low compared to his potential output.
The White Sox have a unique opportunity to reshape their future by trading Crochet. The return could set them up for success in the coming years.
Conclusion
Garrett Crochet’s journey in Major League Baseball has been anything but ordinary. From his early days as a promising reliever to his recent transition into a starting pitcher, Crochet has faced numerous challenges and setbacks. Despite these hurdles, he has shown remarkable resilience and talent, earning a spot as the Opening Day starter for the Chicago White Sox. His performance this season has been nothing short of impressive, proving that he has the potential to be a high-end starter in the league. While his lack of experience and innings may pose some risks, Crochet’s talent and determination make him a valuable asset for any team. As he continues to develop and refine his skills, the future looks bright for this young pitcher. Whether he remains with the White Sox or becomes a sought-after trade target, Garrett Crochet’s story is one of perseverance and potential, and it will be exciting to see where his MLB journey takes him next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Garrett Crochet still considered a rookie in the MLB?
No, Garrett Crochet is not considered a rookie anymore. He made his MLB debut in 2020 with the Chicago White Sox.
What injuries has Garrett Crochet faced in his career?
Garrett Crochet has had Tommy John surgery and has also dealt with a shoulder strain. These injuries have impacted his playing time and development.
What position does Garrett Crochet play?
Garrett Crochet is primarily a pitcher. He has worked both as a reliever and a starter for the Chicago White Sox.
How did Garrett Crochet perform in his 2024 season?
In the 2024 season, Garrett Crochet was named the Opening Day starter for the Chicago White Sox. He has been performing exceptionally well, leading the league in strikeouts.
Has Garrett Crochet always been a starting pitcher?
No, Garrett Crochet started his MLB career as a reliever. He transitioned to a starting pitcher role more recently.
Are there any trade rumors surrounding Garrett Crochet?
Yes, there have been trade rumors about Garrett Crochet. His strong performance has made him a valuable asset, and several teams are interested in acquiring him.
