The Boston Red Sox made one of the biggest moves of the MLB offseason when they traded for former Chicago White Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet. Many may not know Crochet because the White Sox struggled during his time with the team.
Now, with a chance to make a name for himself as a member of the Red Sox, Crochet is poised for a breakout. The team and Crochet are hoping to finalize a contract extension before the regular season begins.
Garrett Crochet Wants Extension Before Opening Day
The Red Sox and Crochet have started talks about a contract extension, but Crochet has made it clear he wants a deal in place by Opening Day. He doesn’t want contract negotiations to be a distraction once the season starts.
According to WEEI.com, Crochet said, “I would rather not (talk contract during the season). I feel like it could be a distraction for myself and I don’t exactly want to be in the clubhouse talking about it with my teammates around me. It’s one of those things where I feel like it kind of takes focus away from being where your feet are.”
Some feel Crochet needs to prove himself before getting a big extension. This spring, he’s thrown 10.1 innings, racking up 21 strikeouts and an ERA of 0.87.
There’s plenty of potential for Crochet, and some even believe he could be a contender for the AL Cy Young award this season. The trade to Boston might be just what he needs to take his career to the next level.
Boston Looking to Bounce Back
The Red Sox have missed the playoffs three seasons in a row. It’s time for them to get back on track, which is why they made moves like acquiring Crochet and signing third baseman Alex Bregman. Both players are expected to play key roles this season.
Meanwhile, rivals like the New York Yankees have been hit by injuries, losing Gerrit Cole for the season and Luis Gil until at least June.
The Baltimore Orioles also took a step back after losing Anthony Santander and Corbin Burnes in free agency. While those teams got weaker, the Red Sox improved, so it’s not far-fetched to think that Boston could win the AL East this year.
Over a 162-game season, anything can happen, but the Red Sox are in a position to bounce back and make a return to the postseason.