Things might be getting chilly with the winter winds sweeping across ballparks, but things are scorching over the baseball hot stove. And right now, the heat is centered around Chicago White Sox left-hander Garrett Crochet.
If you’ve been watching the buzz from the Winter Meetings, you know this is one of those stories that could go from simmer to boil in the blink of an eye. Jon Morosi of MLB Network has hinted that a Crochet trade could be imminent, and this week might just be the tipping point.
Now, for Braves fans who’ve been watching the team’s rotation needs closely, this news is like smelling steaks on the grill—you hope you’re getting a piece of the action, but you might just be left with the aroma.
Over the past few months, there’s been chatter that the Braves could be contenders for Crochet, but Morosi’s latest intel points to the Boston Red Sox and Cincinnati Reds making stronger moves. And if you trust MLBTradeRumors, they’ve thrown a few more teams into the mix: the Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, and the ever-lurking New York Yankees.
What Makes Garrett Crochet an Attractive Offseason Target?
So why all the fuss over Garrett Crochet? This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill trade candidate. Crochet, at just 25 years old, had a breakout season in 2024. His numbers? Let’s just say they speak louder than his 6-12 record. A 3.58 ERA, a sparkling 1.068 WHIP, and 209 strikeouts in 146 innings are the kind of stats that make front offices drool. Not bad for someone who spent 2022 on the sidelines and transitioned to a starter role just this past year.
And the cherry on top? Crochet is affordable. Heading into arbitration, he’s projected to make a cool $2.9 million for the 2025 season, and he’s under team control until 2026. Crochet’s contract is a breath of fresh air in a market where pitching talent tends to come with a price tag that makes your wallet cry.
The Braves GM, Alex Anthopoulos, has hinted at boosting payroll this offseason. But exceeding the luxury tax threshold for a third straight year is not exactly on the team’s wish list. So a move for someone like Crochet, who could potentially replace Max Fried without busting the budget, makes a lot of sense. If they can pull it off, it’s one of those “fits like a glove” scenarios.
Unfortunately for Braves fans, the momentum isn’t swinging their way right now. Morosi’s report makes it clear that while the Braves may have the desire, the Red Sox and Reds are bringing the heat. And let’s not forget those other suitors—the Cubs, Padres, and Yankees—who are always interested in new talent as well.
While the idea of Garrett Crochet repping Braves gear is compelling, it is tough to say for sure where the team stands. If Atlanta isn’t at the front of the line, they might need to pivot quickly or risk watching a golden opportunity slip away.
