Garrett Crochet, a former LHP for the Tennessee Vols, makes a major statement following his huge contract extension.

Garrett Crochet, a former standout left-handed pitcher for the University of Tennessee Volunteers, has recently made a major statement following his massive contract extension with the Chicago White Sox, solidifying his position as one of the premier young talents in Major League Baseball (MLB). The extension, reportedly worth millions of dollars, reflects the faith the White Sox have placed in Crochet as a cornerstone of their pitching staff for years to come. But beyond the numbers, this deal speaks to the remarkable journey of a player who has overcome significant challenges and rapidly ascended through the ranks of professional baseball.

Early Life and College Career

Garrett Crochet’s story begins in the quiet town of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, where he was born in 2000. Growing up, Crochet was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in both baseball and football. His natural athleticism and competitiveness were apparent from an early age, but it was baseball that ultimately captured his full attention. Crochet was a dominant force on the mound throughout his high school years, earning recognition as one of the top pitching prospects in the state.

After high school, Crochet committed to the University of Tennessee, where he would go on to make a significant impact as a freshman. Known for his overpowering fastball, which regularly topped 100 mph, and his ability to generate swings and misses with a devastating slider, Crochet quickly became one of the most talked-about pitchers in college baseball. His performances at Tennessee were nothing short of spectacular, but they also hinted at a player who had the potential to reach even greater heights.

During his time with the Volunteers, Crochet’s reputation as a dominant force on the mound grew exponentially. His sophomore season saw him take on an even more significant role for Tennessee, with scouts and MLB executives flocking to see him pitch. The most notable game came in the 2019 College World Series, where he put on a show of pitching brilliance, showcasing his electric stuff and intimidating presence on the mound.

In his two seasons with Tennessee, Crochet’s raw talent and potential were unmistakable. He struck out an impressive 102 batters in just 65 innings, displaying a remarkable ability to overpower opposing hitters. His college career culminated with him being named to multiple All-American teams, cementing his status as one of the top pitching prospects in the country.

The 2020 MLB Draft: A Monumental Decision

Garrett Crochet’s performance in college quickly caught the attention of MLB scouts, leading to his selection by the Chicago White Sox as the 11th overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft. This was a pivotal moment in Crochet’s career, as he had the opportunity to leave college early and pursue his dream of playing professional baseball. The decision to forgo his remaining eligibility at Tennessee was a difficult one for Crochet, as he had a deep connection to the Volunteers and their fanbase. However, the allure of the major leagues was too great to pass up, and Crochet signed with the White Sox for a substantial bonus.

The decision to turn professional seemed to pay off almost immediately. In just a few short months, Crochet made his MLB debut for the White Sox, a rare feat for a pitcher selected so recently in the draft. His debut came in September 2020, when he took the mound in a highly anticipated game against the Minnesota Twins. The excitement surrounding his debut was palpable, and Crochet did not disappoint. His fastball was as electric as advertised, regularly touching triple digits, and he struck out the side in his first appearance, sending a clear message that he was ready for the big leagues.

Over the remainder of the 2020 season, Crochet continued to impress, appearing in 14 games and quickly establishing himself as a key member of the White Sox bullpen. His combination of velocity and movement made him nearly unhittable at times, and he quickly gained a reputation as one of the most feared pitchers in baseball. By the end of the season, Crochet had posted an ERA of 1.31, with 33 strikeouts in just 27.2 innings of work.

Overcoming Injury and Rising to Prominence

Despite his rapid rise to the majors, Crochet’s career was not without its challenges. In 2021, he faced a major setback when he underwent Tommy John surgery, which caused him to miss the entire 2022 season. For many players, this type of injury can be a career-altering event, but for Crochet, it served as a test of both his physical and mental resilience.

During his time on the injured list, Crochet committed himself to his rehabilitation process, working tirelessly to regain his form. His work ethic during this period was a testament to his commitment to the game and to his future. When he returned to the mound in 2023, it was as if he had never left. He quickly recaptured his velocity and command, and his performance in the early part of the season left no doubt that he was back at full strength.

One of the most impressive aspects of Crochet’s comeback was his ability to maintain his effectiveness despite missing an entire season. His fastball remained a weapon, and his slider continued to be one of the most unhittable pitches in the game. More importantly, his confidence and poise on the mound were at an all-time high, and he seemed to have grown both as a player and as a person during his time away from the game.

The Major Contract Extension

In 2025, after an incredibly successful return from injury and a standout season, Garrett Crochet made a major statement with a contract extension that solidified his future with the White Sox. The deal, reported to be worth tens of millions of dollars, is a testament to Crochet’s development as a top-tier pitcher and the trust that the White Sox have in him as a long-term cornerstone of their pitching staff.

This extension is not just about the money, though. It is a recognition of the hard work and dedication that Crochet has shown throughout his career, especially after overcoming such a significant injury. The extension also speaks to the belief that Crochet can be a central figure in the White Sox’s quest for a championship in the years to come.

In a statement following the extension, Crochet expressed his gratitude to the White Sox organization, his family, and his fans. “This is a dream come true for me,” he said. “I’ve worked my whole life for moments like this, and I’m so grateful to the White Sox for believing in me. I’m excited to be a part of this team for the long haul, and I can’t wait to help bring a championship to Chicago.”

Crochet’s statement was a reflection of both his maturity and his understanding of the significance of this moment. He is no longer just a talented young pitcher; he is now a key leader on a team with serious playoff aspirations. His extension ensures that the White Sox can rely on his arm for years to come, and it marks the beginning of what is expected to be a long and successful career.

The Future of Garrett Crochet and the Chicago White Sox

With this new contract, Garrett Crochet has cemented his place in the long-term plans of the Chicago White Sox. His role on the team will likely evolve, but for now, he is expected to continue to serve as a key member of the bullpen or potentially transition to a starting role in the future. His fastball remains one of the most dangerous pitches in the game, and his slider continues to baffle hitters. As he enters his prime years, Crochet is poised to become one of the best pitchers in baseball.

The White Sox are in the midst of a rebuilding phase, but with players like Crochet leading the way, the future looks incredibly bright. The team has a solid foundation of young talent, and Crochet’s contract extension ensures that they have a true ace in the making to build around.

For Crochet, the journey is just beginning. Having overcome setbacks and achieved success at every level of his career, he has proven that he has the talent and resilience to succeed at the highest level. As he looks ahead, Crochet is focused on continuing to improve, pushing the limits of his potential, and helping the White Sox achieve their ultimate goal of winning a World Series.

Garrett Crochet’s massive contract extension is a well-deserved recognition of his talent, hard work, and potential. But perhaps more importantly, it represents the beginning of a new chapter in his career—one that promises to be filled with success, growth, and leadership. For fans of the White Sox, and for fans of baseball in general, Garrett Crochet’s future is one to watch closely. The sky is the limit for this young star, and his journey is far from over.