The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly making a strong push to acquire Garrett Crochet, the talented starting pitcher from the Chicago White Sox. With Blake Snell seemingly heading to the Los Angeles Dodgers, competition for the 26-year-old left-hander could intensify. Should Phillies president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, act quickly to secure a deal before other teams step in?
Philadelphia’s rotation is led by ace pitchers Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola, with Cristopher Sanchez and Ranger Suarez providing solid depth. However, veteran Taijuan Walker remains a weak link. His second season of a four-year, $72 million contract saw him post a disappointing 7.10 ERA over 83 2/3 innings. Upgrading from Walker to Crochet would be a significant improvement. In 2024, Crochet posted a 3.58 ERA and 1.07 WHIP, along with 209 strikeouts in 146 innings, earning his first All-Star selection.
With Snell likely off the market, teams in need of a left-handed starter, such as the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees, may turn their attention to free agent Max Fried. But as more southpaws find new homes, the competition for Crochet is expected to heat up. Should the Phillies make a bold offer the White Sox can’t resist?
In a potential trade scenario proposed by Chris Landers of FanSided, the Phillies could send third baseman Alec Bohm, outfielder Justin Crawford, shortstop Starlyn Caba, and Walker to the White Sox in exchange for Crochet. Walker’s inclusion would help offset some of his salary, while the other prospects would strengthen Chicago’s future. Bohm, despite his postseason struggles, was an All-Star in 2024 and drove in 97 runs. Crawford and Caba are highly regarded, ranked third and fourth among the Phillies’ top prospects, respectively.
This package could be enticing enough for Chicago, but general manager Chris Getz may not rush into a deal. Last offseason, he waited until February to trade Dylan Cease in a similar situation. As demand for a left-handed starter grows, Getz may hold out for an even better offer.
