The Boston Red Sox have reached a massive agreement with ace left-handed pitcher Garrett Crochet, securing him with a six-year, $170 million contract extension, according to ESPN. The deal, which kicks off in 2026, includes a player opt-out after the 2030 season, when Crochet will be 31 years old. Notably, this contract contains no deferred money and sets a new record for a pitcher with between four and five years of MLB service time.
Crochet, 25, was acquired by the Red Sox in a high-profile trade with the Chicago White Sox in December, with the young lefty as the centerpiece of the five-player deal. Boston made the move after Crochet posted an impressive 2024 season. After transitioning from a reliever to a starting role, he recorded a 3.58 ERA and a 2.23 FIP, striking out 209 batters while issuing only 33 unintentional walks across 146 innings. His standout performance earned him his first All-Star selection. Before this season, Crochet had worked exclusively in relief since being drafted No. 11 overall by the White Sox in 2020 from the University of Tennessee.
From the Red Sox’s perspective, there is inherent risk given Crochet’s limited experience as a starter and his inconsistent injury history. However, his electric stuff, velocity, and dominance as part of a major-league rotation cannot be overlooked.
In his first start for the Red Sox this season, Crochet allowed two runs in five innings against the Texas Rangers. Originally slated to be a free agent after the 2026 season, this extension locks up at least four years of free-agent eligibility.
As Boston emerges from a rebuilding phase, Crochet is expected to be a key piece at the front of the rotation. With a strong mix of young talent and payroll flexibility, the Red Sox are positioning themselves to contend for years to come. This extension may not be the last major move for the club, as they are also in talks with rising star Kristian Campbell about a potential long-term deal.