The Boston Red Sox have made a significant move to secure their pitching future. Theyโve agreed to a six-year, $170 million contract extension with ace left-handed starter Garrett Crochet. This landmark deal includes a player opt-out after the 2030 season and is the largest contract ever for a pitcher with between four and five years of MLB service time.
The Structure of Garrett Crochetโs Record-Breaking Contract
Garrett Crochetโs new contract with the Red Sox is structured to provide both security and incentives for the pitcher. The deal includes a $4 million signing bonus and a salary breakdown as follows:
- 2026: $24 million
- 2027-2030: $28 million per year
- 2031: $30 million
- 2032: $15 million conditional club option
The conditional club option for 2032 is particularly interesting. The Red Sox gain access to this option if Crochet spends at least 120 consecutive days on the injured list with an arm injury between 2026 and 2030. If such an injury occurs, Crochet loses the ability to opt out after the 2030 season. This clause mirrors a similar one the Red Sox had in their contract with John Lackey, which ultimately benefited the team when Lackey missed time due to Tommy John surgery.
Garrett Crochetโs Journey to the Red Sox
Garrett Crochet was acquired by the Red Sox as the centerpiece of a five-player trade with the Chicago White Sox in December. The acquisition came after Crochet enjoyed a standout season in 2024, his first year as a starter after converting from a reliever. During that season, Crochet pitched to a 3.58 ERA and an impressive 2.23 FIP, with 209 strikeouts against 33 unintentional walks in 146 innings. His performance earned him his first All-Star selection.
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Prior to his time with the Red Sox, Crochet had worked exclusively out of the bullpen. The White Sox drafted him with the No. 11 overall pick in 2020 out of the University of Tennessee. His transition to a starting role has been closely watched, and his success in this new role has made him a valuable asset for the Red Sox.
Potential Risks and Rewards
From the clubโs standpoint, there are risks involved in this long-term commitment. Crochet has a relatively brief track record as a starter and a history of injuries. However, his dominant performances and high velocity make him a promising cornerstone for the Red Sox rotation. The team is betting that his potential will outweigh the risks associated with his injury history.
In his first and only start for the Red Sox this season, Crochet allowed two runs in five innings against the Texas Rangers. This performance, while not overwhelming, demonstrated his capability and potential as a key player in the rotation.
The Red Soxโs Future with Crochet
This extension buys out a minimum of four free-agent years for Crochet. It ensures that he will be a vital presence at the front of the Red Sox rotation as the team emerges from a period of rebuilding and payroll disinvestment. The Red Sox have the mid-career pieces, young talent in place, and spending capacity to contend for many seasons to come.
Garrett Crochetโs extension may not be the only significant move for the Red Sox. The team is also in discussions with rising young star Kristian Campbell about a potential long-term deal. Securing these key players would further solidify the Red Soxโs competitive edge in the coming years.
Comparisons to Past Red Sox Contracts
The structure of Crochetโs contract and the inclusion of the conditional club option bring to mind the Red Soxโs past dealings with John Lackey. In Lackeyโs case, the Red Sox gained a league minimum club option for the 2015 season after Lackey missed time with an elbow injury. This savvy move allowed the team to benefit from Lackeyโs return to form at a minimal cost. The Red Sox traded Lackey to the St. Louis Cardinals at the 2014 deadline, and St. Louis picked up the league minimum option after the season.
Conclusion: A Bold Move for a Bright Future
The Boston Red Soxโs decision to extend Garrett Crochetโs contract is a bold move. It underscores the teamโs commitment to building a competitive roster for the future. By locking in a talented and promising pitcher like Crochet, the Red Sox are positioning themselves to emerge from their rebuilding phase with a strong foundation in their starting rotation.
As the Red Sox continue to negotiate with other key players like Kristian Campbell, fans can look forward to a team that is not only competitive but also strategically built for sustained success. For more details on Garrett Crochetโs extension, you can read the full article on CBS Sports.
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