CINCINNATI – at Great American Ball Park will belong to Garrett Crochet. The Boston Red Sox announced Tuesday that the left-handed pitcher will have the honor of starting their game against the Cincinnati Reds.
This marks the third time Crochet will take the mound on , and his second as a member of the Red Sox. His debut start for Boston last year against the Texas Rangers didn’t result in a decision, but it signaled the arrival of a pitcher poised for significant impact. Now, he’s been officially entrusted with leading the team into a new season.
The announcement comes on the heels of a remarkable 2025 campaign for the 24-year-old. Crochet finished second in the American League Cy Young Award voting, a testament to his dominance on the hill. He posted an impressive 18-5 record with a 2.59 ERA across 32 starts, showcasing a level of consistency and effectiveness that quickly established him as one of the league’s premier pitchers. Perhaps most notably, Crochet led all of Major League Baseball in strikeouts with a staggering 255, demonstrating his ability to consistently overpower opposing hitters.
The Red Sox’s decision to tap Crochet as their starter wasn’t a surprise to many. The Reds, Boston’s opponent, acknowledged the obvious choice. The selection underscores the confidence manager Alex Cora and the Red Sox organization have in Crochet’s ability to set the tone for the season. It’s a clear signal that the team believes he’s the player to lead them as they pursue contention in the American League East.
Crochet’s journey to this point hasn’t been without its challenges. Originally drafted by the Chicago White Sox, he underwent Tommy John surgery in 2022, delaying his ascent to the major leagues. However, he rebounded impressively, showcasing not only his physical talent but also his mental fortitude. The Red Sox acquired him in a trade, and he quickly became a cornerstone of their pitching staff.
The assignment is a significant milestone in Crochet’s career. It’s a recognition of his accomplishments and a vote of confidence in his future potential. It also carries a certain amount of pressure, as he’ll be tasked with setting the standard for the Red Sox pitching staff and inspiring the team as they embark on a new season.
The matchup against the Reds presents an interesting challenge. Cincinnati boasts a potent offense, capable of scoring runs in bunches. Crochet will need to rely on his full arsenal of pitches – a fastball that consistently reaches the mid-90s, a sharp slider, and a developing changeup – to navigate their lineup effectively. His ability to command the strike zone and limit walks will be crucial to his success.
Beyond the immediate game, Crochet’s performance on could have broader implications for the Red Sox’s season. A strong start could build momentum and confidence for the entire team, while a shaky outing could create doubts and anxieties. The Red Sox will be looking to Crochet to provide a spark and set a positive tone for the months ahead.
The Red Sox’s decision to name Crochet their starter is more than just a symbolic gesture. It’s a statement about the team’s belief in his talent, his work ethic, and his leadership potential. It’s a sign that the Red Sox are confident they have a legitimate ace leading their pitching staff, and that they’re ready to compete for a championship. The baseball world will be watching closely on to see if Crochet can live up to the expectations.
