Garrett Crochet Trade Rumors: Braves 'Among Teams' Eyeing White Sox Star at Deadline

The Atlanta Braves are in the sweepstakes for Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Garrett Crochet, according to the New York Post's Jon Heyman.

Atlanta needs to bolster its pitching depth before Tuesday's trade deadline with Max Fried on the injured list due to left forearm neuritis. Spencer Strider is expected to miss the remainder of the season after undergoing elbow surgery in April as well.

Crochet is the best starter on the trade market. Through 22 appearances, he has an American League-best 160 strikeouts and a 2.41 FIP. He has made a seamless transition from the bullpen to the starting rotation.

The left-hander is under team control for two more seasons as well, which adds to his value.

However, things aren't quite so straightforward after ESPN's Jesse Rogers reported Crochet wants an extension if he's going to pitch in the playoffs. He reportedly doesn't want to be used as a reliever again, either.

Josh Hader utilized a somewhat similar strategy with the San Diego Padres last season as he was destined for free agency. He made it known he didn't want to pitch more than three outs at a time.

Crochet's potential impact in Atlanta is obvious. A playoff rotation that includes he, Fried, Chris Sale and Reynaldo López would be formidable. His experience as a reliever would give manager Brian Snitker a lot of strategic flexibility as well.

However, the Braves' appetite to land Crochet might be lower if they fear he's genuine in his desire to not pitch in October without a new contract.

USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported Monday that suitors who plan to "use him as a hybrid starter and reliever, now are having second thoughts whether they should bother acquiring him if he's going to shut it down."

Maybe Atlanta or another franchise is willing to call his bluff.