A new rumor suggests the New York Mets are actively pursuing a trade for Chicago White Sox ace Garrett Crochet, but the cost to acquire the young All-Star is starting to take shape.
After a more budget-conscious approach to free agency last year, the Mets are expected to be much more aggressive in the market this offseason. With plenty of financial flexibility and the backing of the wealthiest owner in Major League Baseball, they’ve already been linked to high-profile names like New York Yankees star Juan Soto.
While the Mets have significant advantages in free agency, they are also eyeing opportunities in the trade market. The team boasts a solid pool of prospects, and reports indicate that some of those players could be involved in a potential blockbuster deal.
Garrett Crochet’s 2024 season stats: 6-12 record, 3.58 ERA, 1.068 WHIP, 209 strikeouts in 146 innings.
Crochet was one of the top trade targets leading up to the 2024 MLB trade deadline, especially after the White Sox endured a historically bad season. Despite the team’s struggles, Crochet—still just 25 years old and under team control for two more seasons at a low salary—remains a highly sought-after asset. However, Chicago’s asking price was too high for any team to meet, and the expectation was that trade talks would continue in the offseason. At the recent general manager meetings, White Sox GM Chris Getz confirmed the team has already fielded significant interest for Crochet this winter.
With Crochet projected to earn $2.9 million in arbitration for the 2025 season, the Mets are reportedly one of the teams in the mix, according to New York Post MLB insider Jon Heyman. So, what would it take for the Mets to land him?
Chicago is reportedly looking for a position player who could immediately help boost their offense. While the Mets could offer veterans like Starling Marte, Jeff McNeil, or Brandon Nimmo, those players may be seen as too old, injury-prone, or expensive for the White Sox’s liking. Instead, third baseman Mark Vientos, coming off a strong second half and postseason, is a likely candidate to be part of the package. Other top prospects like Brett Baty, Ronny Mauricio, and Jett Williams could also be on Chicago’s radar.
Vientos, in particular, could be a tough loss for Mets fans, but to acquire a young pitcher with the potential to be an ace for years to come, it might be a price the team is willing to pay.
