The Dodgers reportedly have Garrett Crochet “at the top” of their wish list as the July 30 trade deadline quickly approaches.
According to a new report by ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, the lefty All-Star is a prime target for Las Angeles this July. Though it’s unknown whether Crochet would remain in the rotation or work out of the bullpen, Gonzalez made it clear the White Sox will still ask for a return “based on his value as a starter.”
Crochet, 25, is 6-6 with a 3.02 ERA (0.93 WHIP) and 141 strikeouts over 18 starts. He’s already amassed a career-high 107.1 IP as of this article, a cause for caution not only for the White Sox but any team that might acquire him in the coming weeks. His previous high mark was just 54.1 IP back in 2021.
The White Sox currently have Crochet under control through the 2026 season, resulting in a hefty asking price for any possible suitors. While some have wondered about the likelihood of an extension instead, USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reported on June 30 that the organization has “no optimism” regarding a long-term deal. Because of this, the club’s intention is now to deal the lefty before the calendar hits August.
Based on Nightengale’s previous report, 15 teams have already called to express their interest in Crochet. In fact, the Dodgers already offered a package that was “quickly rejected” by Getz and Co. The biggest question mark, as mentioned earlier, is Crochet’s workload through the second half and into October. This alone could cause some teams to be hesitant to offer the farm, as the Sox are seeking “young prospects with enormous upside.”
As Nightengale mentioned, the team acquiring Crochet may have to offer a contract extension to lift his innings restrictions in the second half. As a pitcher who’s already suffered various injuries, including Tommy John surgery, there’s a risk that exists, and it’s one Crochet will not want to test.
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