The Boston Red Sox have reportedly signed left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet to a six-year, $170 million extension, effective starting in 2026. This deal allows Crochet, who turned 26 in June and is currently making a $3.8 million salary, to opt out after the 2030 season. The extension includes a $10 million escalation bonus based on Cy Young finishes and a $2 million allocation bonus, but lacks no-trade protection.
Crochet was acquired from the White Sox in a significant offseason trade, which involved four prospects, including first-round picks Kyle Thiel and Braden Montgomery. Initially drafted by the White Sox as a first-round pick in 2020, he faced injuries that limited his playtime but has shown promise since transitioning to a starting pitcher role. Last season, he posted a 3.58 ERA over 146.2 innings, demonstrating strong strikeout abilities.
The Red Sox consider Crochet a vital addition to their pitching staff, especially as he enters what they expect to be his prime years. His contract sets a new precedent for extensions for pitchers with 4-5 years of service time and is expected to impact future contracts in the league.
Overall, the deal reflects Boston’s commitment to building a strong rotation around Crochet, who could potentially opt out of the contract before hitting his age-32 season if he continues to perform at a high level. The agreement positions him alongside several other high-value contracts on the Red Sox payroll, indicating the team’s long-term investment in their pitching staff.
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