As MLB Offseason Heats Up, Mets Eye White Sox Starter Garrett Crochet
The Major League Baseball offseason trading period is in full swing, and all eyes are on potential pitcher trades that could reshape the competitive landscape for the upcoming season. Among the intriguing storylines is the New York Mets’ interest in acquiring White Sox All-Star starter Garrett Crochet, a move that indicates the Mets are aggressively seeking to bolster their pitching rotation.
Crochet's allure is understandable. Last season, the left-hander posted a win-loss record of 6-12 while maintaining a commendable 3.58 ERA. His performance was bolstered by an exceptional 115 ERA+ and a 1.07 WHIP, numbers that highlight his effectiveness on the mound despite a challenging season in Chicago. Over 146 innings, Crochet accrued 209 strikeouts, showcasing his ability to overpower hitters with a blazing fastball and sharp breaking pitches. The White Sox still have control over Crochet through the 2026 season, making him a valuable asset in their rotation.
For the Mets, whose potential starting rotation includes Kodai Senga, David Peterson, Paul Blackburn, and Tylor Megill, adding a dynamic left-handed talent like Crochet would be a formidable boost. The Mets’ interest underscores their commitment to assembling a rotation capable of making a deep postseason run, given the fierce competition expected in the National League.
Elsewhere in the league, the offseason talks are buzzing with activity. The Arizona Diamondbacks, another team deeply involved in discussions, are considering moving Jordan Montgomery. Montgomery, who carries a hefty $23.75 million contract for the season, could be a significant addition for teams in need of an experienced arm. Additionally, Zac Gallen's approach to free agency looms large for the Diamondbacks, while Merrill Kelly is under a more manageable $7 million contract for next year. The future of Eduardo Rodriguez, under contract through 2027, adds further layers to the Diamondbacks' strategic decisions in pitching.
In contrast, the Pittsburgh Pirates are exploring potential changes to their rotation as they look ahead to next season. Speculation surrounds a rotation that might feature emerging talents such as Paul Skenes and Jared Jones alongside established pitcher Mitch Keller. Bailey Falter and Luis Ortiz may complete a rotation aiming to surprise in the National League Central race.
The ongoing trade discussions are setting the stage for a potentially tumultuous offseason, wherein strategic pitching acquisitions could define the success of several franchises. The qualifying offer deadline looms, adding urgency to these talks as clubs evaluate their options and potential trade partners.
Teams like the Pirates and Diamondbacks highlight the active market, as they weigh options that balance present competitiveness with future flexibility. Ryne Nelson and Brandon Pfaadt, still in pre-arbitration with their respective teams, represent young talents that clubs are keen to develop as cost-effective future contributors.
As front offices around the league engage in complex negotiations, the anticipation and speculation only grow. Each move reverberates across the league, as GMs weigh their assets and potentials ahead of what promises to be a riveting baseball season. With key players like Garrett Crochet at the center of trade talks, the coming weeks are certain to bring clarity—or further complexity—to MLB's pitching landscape.
Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring developments, waiting to see which teams will emerge as winners in this high-stakes offseason chess game. For the Mets, Diamondbacks, Pirates, and others, the path forward hinges on both shrewd decision-making and a bit of fortunate timing—a combination that every team yearns for as the countdown to spring training continues.