As the trade deadline approaches, the Philadelphia Phillies are looking to bolster their roster. One name that keeps coming up is Chicago White Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet. MLB insider Jon Morosi has reported that Crochet is among the potential targets the Phillies are considering.
On paper, the move seems logical. Crochet has had a standout season with the struggling White Sox. Transitioning from a reliever to a starter in 2024, he has posted a 6-7 record with a 3.07 ERA and 0.97 WHIP, striking out 157 batters in 111 1/3 innings. His impressive performance even earned him an All-Star nod.
However, despite his strong numbers, it might not be wise for the Phillies to trade top prospects for Crochet. His track record as a starter is limited, and his current success could be short-lived. The risk of investing in a pitcher with a potentially unstable future raises concerns about the Phillies’ decision to use valuable trade assets on him.
Additionally, Crochet has struggled to pitch deep into games, having exceeded five innings only 11 times and six innings just three times this season. In his last three starts, he hasn’t gone past the fourth inning as the White Sox manage his workload. Before 2024, Crochet had only pitched 73 innings across three seasons, and he has already surpassed that total this year, increasing the risk of fatigue affecting his performance. This could force the Phillies to move him back to a relief role if he faces workload restrictions.
According to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman, Crochet won’t pitch in October unless he receives a contract extension post-trade and won’t transition to a bullpen role or take a break.
Garrett Crochet plan with White Sox is to pitch normal workload as starter until end of regular season. If traded would need extension to pitch in October. He won’t move to bullpen and will not take any break. Views starter routine as best for health.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 25, 2024
Given the White Sox’s likely high demands for Crochet and the potential limitations on his innings, the Phillies should consider other options rather than investing heavily in a pitcher with uncertain long-term value.