The 2024 Chicago White Sox are enduring a historically dismal season in baseball. As of Tuesday’s games, they sported a 26-67 record, ranking last in the American League both in runs scored and runs allowed. Their deficiencies extend across the board – they rank last in walks drawn and given, with a staggering -104 deficit in that category. Even in hitting triples, they have managed just five, highlighting their overall struggles.
Despite these woes, the White Sox possess some of the most coveted players on the trade market as the July 31 deadline approaches. Center fielder Luis Robert, a youthful 26-year-old, stands out as perhaps the most sought-after position player available. Additionally, the team boasts two of the most attractive starting pitchers in lefty Garrett Crochet and righty Erick Fedde.
Consider this: Despite the team’s collective 4.58 ERA, Crochet and Fedde have been exceptional. They have made 37 starts and pitched a combined 211 2/3 innings with an ERA barely exceeding 3.00. It’s a stark contrast within a struggling team.
Both hurlers come with unique stories. Crochet, a first-round pick in the 2020 pandemic-altered draft, showed promise early but faced setbacks, including Tommy John surgery in 2022. Since his return, he has been a standout, leading the majors in strikeouts with 146 and maintaining elite strikeout and walk rates. His fastball averages 97.0 mph and is complemented by an effective cutter, though his slider remains a work in progress. With two years of team control beyond this season, Crochet is a potential Cy Young contender for any interested club.
On the other hand, Fedde, drafted by the Nationals in 2014, struggled in Washington before finding success in Japan in 2023. Returning to MLB, he has significantly improved his strikeout-to-walk ratio and contact management, posting impressive Adjusted Contact Scores and ERA metrics. Despite having an average pitch arsenal, his effectiveness in inducing grounders and pop-ups makes him a valuable asset under his current contract through next season.
Both pitchers could benefit from improved team defense, as the White Sox rank poorly in defensive metrics, particularly in the infield. While their trade carries risks, particularly with Crochet’s injury history, their potential rewards make them prime targets in a seller-heavy market. For the White Sox, the trade deadline could mark a pivotal opportunity to secure future cornerstone players in exchange for their prized assets.