Boston Red Sox ace Garrett Crochet will not pitch in next week’s MLB All-Star Game, despite earning a well-deserved selection. MLB announced Friday that Crochet will be replaced on the American League roster by Detroit Tigers starter Casey Mize. And Crochet’s reason? Pure pragmatism.
Workload Management Comes First
The 25-year-old lefty broke it down simply before Friday’s game at Fenway against the Rays. It’s not about skipping an honor — it’s about protecting the bigger picture.
“For me, it’s just looking at my past four years,” Crochet said via MassLive’s Chris Cotillo. “In 2022, I threw zero innings. In ‘23, I threw 13. Last year, I threw 146. And this year I’m on pace for 200.”
He’s not wrong. After a turbulent start to his MLB career, including Tommy John surgery and a nearly two-year recovery window, 2025 is shaping up to be his first true full-throttle season — and he knows what’s at stake.
“From my standpoint, it makes no sense to make that 201 to throw in a game that doesn’t determine my team’s fate throughout the season,” Crochet said.
Big Numbers, Bigger Goals
Crochet’s 2025 has been lights-out. Through 19 starts and 120.1 innings, he’s 9-4 with a 2.39 ERA, 151 strikeouts, and a league-best K total. He’s become the American League’s strikeout leader and Boston’s bona fide frontline guy.
And while pitching in the All-Star Game is an honor, Crochet made it clear that his priority is keeping himself ready for a stretch run — something the Red Sox haven’t been in the mix for in recent years.
“Just with the way my continued growth is, and my workload ceiling, I’d rather not add to it,” he said. “It’s a huge honor to be [selected]. I threw last year, with it being my first one. If I were to go next year, I would probably throw.”
Red Sox Playoffs Are Greater Than Personal Accolades
Boston entered the weekend firmly in the Major League Baseball playoff picture, and with Crochet scheduled to pitch again on Saturday, he’s laser-focused on wins that count. The Red Sox know their ceiling is significantly higher with a healthy, rested Crochet leading the rotation in September.
So yes, he’s skipping the All-Star Game. But if it means he’s better prepared to help Boston make noise in October? That’s a trade every Red Sox fan should gladly take.
