Many Boston Red Sox fans remain optimistic that the team can secure two-time All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman before the offseason ends.
Manager Alex Cora and franchise cornerstone Rafael Devers have both weighed in on the potential acquisition of the longtime Houston Astros standout, though Devers’ response was notably cryptic.
So far, one of the most significant offseason moves for the Red Sox has been the December trade for left-handed starter Garrett Crochet. The 25-year-old is set to earn $2.9 million in 2025, with salary arbitration eligibility in 2026 and free agency not looming until after that season.
Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer recently highlighted Crochet in his article, “Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and 10 Star Players MLB Teams Must Extend Before It’s Too Late.” Rymer emphasized the importance of urgency for the Red Sox, describing Crochet as one of the “young building blocks who will only become more expensive.”
Crochet’s Contract Extension ‘Highly Likely’
Originally drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 34th round of the 2017 MLB Draft, Crochet played at the University of Tennessee before being selected 11th overall in 2020 by the Chicago White Sox. He debuted in September of that year, making an immediate impact as a reliever.
In his rookie season (2021), Crochet pitched 54 games out of the bullpen, posting a 3-5 record with a 2.52 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, and 65 strikeouts over 54 1/3 innings. However, Tommy John surgery in April 2022 sidelined him for the entire season and delayed his 2023 return until May.
Limited to 13 relief appearances in 2023, Crochet transitioned to a starting role in 2024, where he had a breakout season. Despite a 6-12 record on a struggling White Sox team, he posted a 3.58 ERA, a career-best 1.06 WHIP, and struck out 209 batters (fourth in the AL) over 146 innings in 32 starts. His achievements included being named June’s AL Pitcher of the Month, earning his first All-Star selection, and winning the AL Comeback Player of the Year award.
In his analysis, Rymer noted the potential risk in extending Crochet, citing his Tommy John surgery and relatively limited 219 big-league innings. However, he stressed that the upside justifies taking the gamble. “If they wait and Crochet has another stellar year, locking him up with just one season left before free agency won’t be feasible,” he warned.
Rymer rated the likelihood of a Crochet extension in Boston as “high” on his probability scale, adding that both parties appear interested in a deal. “The Red Sox could comfortably offer Crochet $30 million per year and still remain under the luxury tax threshold for 2025,” he said.
Crochet Leads Revamped Red Sox Rotation
Crochet is one of three newcomers expected to play a significant role in Boston’s starting rotation.
The Red Sox also signed two-time All-Star Walker Buehler in December, who is projected to be a frontline starter. Additionally, lefty Patrick Sandoval joins the rotation as a potential sixth starter or depth piece.
Returning starters Brayan Bello, Kutter Crawford, and 2024 All-Star Tanner Houck are also key components of the rotation. Meanwhile, former All-Star Lucas Giolito, who signed with Boston in January 2024, could serve as another depth option following his recovery from UCL surgery.
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