Baltimore Orioles Face Increased Competition for Chicago White Sox’s Garrett Crochet

The trade market for Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Garrett Crochet has become increasingly competitive, with the Baltimore Orioles facing new challenges in their pursuit of the left-hander. The Orioles, who are in dire need of pitching help this offseason, especially if their ace Corbin Burnes decides to leave as a free agent, have been actively linked to Crochet. However, they are not the only team in the running, as the Milwaukee Brewers have also entered the fray, according to sources including Jon Morosi of MLB Network.

Crochet, who was made available ahead of the MLB trade deadline in July but remained with the White Sox, is now a prime target for several teams. His impressive performance in the 2024 season, which included an All-Star bid and a 4.1 WAR despite pitching for a team that set a record for most losses in a season, has heightened his value. The White Sox, coming off a dismal 121-loss season, are open to trading Crochet as part of their ongoing rebuild. General Manager Chris Getz indicated that while a deal at the Winter Meetings is possible, the team will not rush into anything that does not align with their long-term goals.

The White Sox are seeking a significant return for Crochet, who has two years of club contractual control remaining. Getz emphasized that the team is focused on acquiring position players but is also open to quality pitchers in return. The complexity of the trade negotiations is further complicated by the involvement of multiple teams and the potential for both top-heavy and volume-type deals.

The Orioles, with their deep lineup and minor league talent, are well-positioned to make a strong offer for Crochet. However, the Brewers’ interest adds another layer of competition, particularly as they consider moving their own star players, such as center fielder Luis Robert Jr., due to contract and performance issues.

The Winter Meetings are expected to be pivotal in determining the fate of Crochet and other key players in the MLB trade market. As free agents continue to sign with teams, the focus is likely to shift towards trades, making the next few days crucial for teams looking to bolster their rosters.