Boston Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet has lost the ability to opt out of his contract in 2030 due to a unique clause activated by his extended time on the injured list. Crochet, who last pitched for the team on April 25, has been sidelined for 120 consecutive days, triggering the stipulation that voids his 2030 opt-out option. His salary for that season is now set at $30 million.
Crochet was acquired by the Red Sox in a December 2024 trade with the Chicago White Sox, part of a deal involving prospects Kyle Teel, Braden Montgomery, Chase Meidroth, and Wikelman Gonzalez. In his first season with Boston, Crochet posted a career-best 2.59 ERA and recorded 18 wins, establishing himself as the team's primary ace. However, his 2026 season has been significantly impacted by injuries.
While his current contract pays him $45 million for the 2031 and 2032 seasons, the $30 million for 2030 is considered a bargain by current market standards for a pitcher of his caliber. Crochet was ranked as the league's fourth-most valuable pitcher by WAR via FanGraphs from 2024-2025. The activation of the clause comes amid uncertainty in Major League Baseball's collective bargaining negotiations, with a potential work stoppage looming. This situation mirrors that of impending Dodgers free agent Tarik Skubal, who faces similar contract uncertainties.
Although Crochet is expected to return to the team this season, his usage may shift to a bullpen role rather than a starter, given the remaining time in the season and the need to build up arm strength. The Red Sox currently hold a 71-59 record and are 3.5 games behind the New York Yankees in the AL wild-card race as of Monday.