MLB Lines: Garrett Crochet Change of “Sox”

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Red Sox Acquire Garrett Crochet in Major Trade with White Sox

The Boston Red Sox made a bold move to bolster their starting rotation by acquiring Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox. The deal sends four prospects to Chicago: top catcher Kyle Teel, outfielder Braden Montgomery, right-hander Wikelman Gonzalez, and infielder Chase Meidroth. MLB Lines is already reflecting on the impact of this acquisition, and the Red Sox aim to strengthen their playoff aspirations in the upcoming season.

The Deal: A Price Worth Paying

Garrett Crochet, one of the most coveted pitchers on the trade market, comes to Boston with an impressive 2024 campaign under his belt. The 25-year-old posted a 3.58 ERA in 32 starts for the White Sox and led all starters with at least 100 innings in strikeout rate (35.1 percent) while maintaining a low 5.5 percent walk rate. 

Despite missing the 2022 season due to Tommy John surgery and dealing with shoulder soreness in 2023, Crochet proved his value in his first full season as a starter. He has two years of team control remaining, making him a strategic acquisition for Boston.

The Red Sox prioritized Crochet after losing out on free agent Max Fried, who signed with the Yankees. While the price was steep, Boston retained their top prospects, including Roman Anthony, Marcelo Mayer, and Kristian Campbell, marking a significant win for the organization.

The Prospects Heading to Chicago

Kyle Teel, Boston’s top-catching prospect, headlines the package sent to the White Sox. Drafted in the first round of 2023 out of the University of Virginia, Teel quickly advanced through the minors, reaching Double-A by the end of 2023. 

Teel was seen as Boston’s future behind the plate. He was an offense-first catcher with room for defensive improvement. His departure leaves the Red Sox relying on Connor Wong as their primary catcher, at least in the short term.

Braden Montgomery, selected 12th overall in the 2024 draft, also joins the White Sox. Initially projected as a top-five pick, Montgomery’s stock dropped after he fractured his ankle during the NCAA Super Regionals. 

While he has not resumed baseball activities, his recovery is on track for spring training. Montgomery’s potential as an outfielder made him a valuable trade asset, especially given Boston’s surplus of young outfield talent.

Wikelman Gonzalez, once a top pitching prospect in the Red Sox system, has struggled with command throughout his career. Despite his challenges, Gonzalez offers potential as a starter or long reliever, depending on how the White Sox develop him. 

Chase Meidroth, a versatile infielder with strong on-base skills, rounds out the trade package. Meidroth spent 2024 in Triple-A and was on track to debut as a utility player in Boston before the trade.

Why the Red Sox Needed Crochet?

Boston’s rotation required a true No. 1 starter, and Crochet fits the bill. With Tanner Houck, Bryan Bello, Kutter Crawford, and Lucas Giolito anchoring the rotation, the addition of Crochet provides much-needed stability and top-tier talent. His elite strikeout ability and command make him a cornerstone for the Red Sox’s future.

White Sox Focus on Rebuilding

This trade signals a commitment to rebuilding through high-upside prospects for the White Sox. By acquiring Teel, Montgomery, Gonzalez, and Meidroth, Chicago adds depth to its farm system and positions itself for long-term success. The emphasis on young talent rather than established players reflects a strategic approach to revitalizing the organization.