MLB Insider Names Red Sox Garrett Crochet Trade Transaction of Year

The Boston Red Sox's acquisition of Garrett Crochet from the Chicago White Sox in December 2024 has been widely recognized as the best transaction of the MLB offseason by insider Jeff Passan. Crochet, a left-handed pitcher, has had a stellar 2025 season, leading the league in innings pitched and strikeouts, posting a 17-5 record with a 2.69 ERA, and solidifying Boston's rotation after the departure of Chris Sale. Passan highlighted the rarity and impact of the trade, noting that both teams benefited significantly, with Boston locking Crochet into a six-year, $170 million contract despite his limited innings pitched prior. Without Crochet, the Red Sox likely would not be in playoff contention, especially given the team’s injury challenges throughout the season. While the Red Sox also made headline-grabbing trades like sending Rafael Devers to the Giants, the Crochet trade stands out for its immediate and profound impact on the team's success. This move positions Crochet as a potential American League Cy Young runner-up and a cornerstone of Boston's pitching staff moving forward.