Boston Red Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet has announced he will not participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, citing family reasons as the main factor behind his decision. Although he initially planned to represent Team USA, the birth of his daughter and his commitment to the Red Sox influenced his choice to sit out the tournament.
Career-Defining Season Solidifies Crochet’s Status as an Elite Pitcher
In the 2025 season, Crochet emerged as one of the American League’s top starting pitchers. After being traded from the Chicago White Sox, the left-hander quickly became a key figure in Boston’s rotation. Over 32 starts, he recorded an impressive 18-5 win-loss mark, coupled with a 2.59 ERA and 255 strikeouts, leading the major leagues in strikeouts. His WHIP of 1.03 further highlighted his consistency and effectiveness on the mound.
His standout performances included an eight-inning shutout and a dominant appearance in the AL Wild Card Series against the New York Yankees, where he struck out 11 batters across 7.2 innings while allowing just one run. These achievements earned him a spot on the All-MLB First Team and second place in the AL Cy Young Award voting, reflecting his precision and pitch quality, especially his notable sweeping curveball.
Long-Term Commitment to Boston and Future Prospects
Before joining the Red Sox, Crochet began his career as a promising reliever with the White Sox before transitioning into a high-impact starter. His breakthrough performance in Boston led to a lucrative six-year, $170 million contract extension signed in early 2025, securing his role as a foundational member of the team.
Heading into the 2026 season, Crochet remains an essential leader of Boston’s pitching staff and is expected to continue competing at a high level. Despite his absence from the WBC, his focus remains on both family and his contributions to the Red Sox.
Balancing Family and Professional Responsibilities
“Garrett Crochet says that he had plans in 2025 of being part of Team USA for the 2026 WBC but his decision came down to his family (newborn baby girl) and the Red Sox so he had to make the right decision and pass.” – Boston Strong
Crochet’s decision underscores the challenges athletes face when balancing personal life with demanding professional schedules. His choice to prioritize his newborn daughter alongside his obligations to the Red Sox adds a thoughtful and human dimension to his career trajectory.
Garrett Crochet says that he had plans in 2025 of being part of Team USA for the 2026 WBC but his decision came down to his family (newborn baby girl) and the Red Sox so he had to make the right decision and pass.
– @BostonGlobe pic.twitter.com/4dDD5hfiRD
— Boston Strong (@BostonStrong_34) February 7, 2026
