The Chicago White Sox and their prized first-round draft pick Garrett Crochet have officially agreed to terms on a deal. The left-handed pitcher will be getting the full slot value worth $4,547,500 in a minor-league contract.
Crochet, 21, was selected with the 11th overall pick in the 2020 MLB draft out of the University of Tennessee. He is known for his fastball that jumped in velocity last fall, earning him the distinction of having the best among college pitchers, per Baseball America. Due to some shoulder soreness and the shortened season, he made only one start in his junior year with the Vols, tossing 3.2 scoreless IP with six strikeouts. Crochet, 6-foot-6 and 220 pounds, entered the draft rated as the No. 11 college and No. 3 left-handed pitching prospect by MLB Pipeline.
“I’m thrilled to officially be a member of the White Sox organization,” said Crochet in a press release. “It has always been my dream to play at the highest level, and now I’m one step closer to achieving that dream. I want to thank my family, friends, coaches and teammates who have helped throughout my baseball career. I can’t wait to get started.”
With the signing, Crochet now joins third-rounder Adisyn Coffey and fourth-rounder Kade Mehcals as the draft picks to sign with the organization. The White Sox now have $3,157,300 remaining of their $7,764,800 bonus pool for both second-round prep arm Jared Kelley and fifth-round Auburn lefty Bailey Horn. Kelley, widely considered a top 15 talent, is rumored to be demanding an over-slot deal upwards of three million dollars after falling to 47th overall. Luckily for the Sox, Mike Shirley and Co. drafted strategically in the third through fifth rounds to make sure the funds were available for a deal.
For more on Crochet, check out our interview with his college head coach and pitching coach below!
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Featured Photo: Tennessee Baseball/Twitter
