The San Diego Padres are reportedly showing keen interest in acquiring left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox, according to a report by Dennis Lin and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. While no deal is imminent, the Padres have emerged as the frontrunners in pursuing Crochet, making them the most proactive team in this regard.
Although significant trades are uncommon at this point in the season, with the trade deadline still nearly two months away, the circumstances surrounding these two teams make such a move plausible. Notably, the White Sox and Padres engaged in a notable trade earlier this year, exchanging Dylan Cease for another player. Both teams have also been involved in significant transactions recently, indicating a willingness to explore unconventional trade opportunities.
However, there are complexities surrounding Crochet’s situation that could impede a potential trade. Despite his young age and impressive performance, Crochet’s injury history and contractual status make him a unique case. He underwent Tommy John surgery in 2022, which limited his playing time and impacted his salary arbitration. While he has shown promise this season, there are uncertainties about his long-term health and future contractual demands.
For the White Sox, Crochet’s emergence presents both opportunities and challenges. While he has the potential to be a key contributor to their roster, his impending free agency and potential salary demands could complicate their long-term plans. Consequently, the White Sox may consider trading him to maximize his current value, especially given their current standings.
However, the Padres’ ability to secure a trade for Crochet is uncertain. While they have shown interest, they are hesitant to part with significant prospects, which could hinder negotiations. Additionally, the Padres’ recent rotation struggles highlight their urgent need for pitching reinforcements, making Crochet an attractive target for them.
Ultimately, whether a trade materializes remains to be seen, but both teams have compelling reasons to explore this possibility. For the Padres, acquiring Crochet or another starting pitcher could bolster their rotation and improve their chances in the competitive National League playoff race.
