Boston Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet, a former Tennessee Volunteers standout, has secured a historic contract extension, making him one of the highest-paid pitchers in Major League Baseball history. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Crochet inked a six-year, $170 million deal on Monday, setting a new financial benchmark for pitchers with four or more years of MLB service.
The previous record in that category belonged to Texas Rangers ace Jacob deGrom, who signed a five-year, $137.5 million contract. Crochet’s new deal marks a significant leap, further highlighting the Red Sox’s confidence in his abilities as their frontline starter.
Notably, Crochet’s extension also represents the largest single professional contract ever signed by a former Tennessee athlete. While legendary Vol Peyton Manning signed multiple contracts exceeding $90 million during his illustrious NFL career, none reached the $100 million mark, emphasizing the substantial earning potential within Major League Baseball.
Crochet, who pitched for the Tennessee Volunteers from 2018 to 2020, was selected in the first round of the 2020 MLB Draft by the Chicago White Sox. Initially utilized as a reliever, his career took a challenging turn when he underwent Tommy John surgery, a procedure that sidelined him for an extended period. However, his resilience and work ethic paid off, as he returned to dominance in 2024, earning American League Comeback Player of the Year honors.
During the offseason, the White Sox traded Crochet to the Boston Red Sox, where he is now poised to lead the team’s pitching staff for years to come. His electric fastball, combined with his ability to generate strikeouts, has made him a crucial asset for Boston as they aim for sustained success in the competitive AL East.
With this record-breaking deal, Crochet has not only solidified his status as a premier pitcher but also brought further recognition to the Tennessee baseball program. As he continues his career in Boston, Vols fans and baseball enthusiasts alike will be watching closely to see how he performs under the weight of his new contract and the expectations that come with it.
For Tennessee athletics, Crochet’s massive payday serves as another testament to the program’s ability to develop top-tier talent capable of excelling at the highest level. The Volunteers continue to produce elite athletes across multiple sports, further enhancing their reputation as a powerhouse in collegiate athletics.
As the 2025 MLB season unfolds, all eyes will be on Garrett Crochet as he embarks on the next chapter of his already remarkable career.