Garrett Crochet’s Recent Weapon: How the Red Sox Ace is Evolving His Arsenal
Boston Red Sox ace Garrett Crochet is entering the 2026 season with a subtle but potentially significant change to his pitching repertoire. He’s adjusted his changeup, transforming it into more of a splitter, a move he hopes will further elevate his already dominant performance.
From Changeup to Splitter: A Grip Learned at Vanderbilt
Crochet revealed the adjustment stemmed from guidance from Red Sox pitching coach Andrew Bailey and coach Devin Rose, who provided videos and different grips to experiment with. He similarly consulted with a Vanderbilt baseball staff member, where he works out during the offseason with teammate Sonny Gray, to refine the splitter grip. “It’s kind of more of a splitter now than it has been in the past,” Crochet said, according to Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic.
The decision to embrace the splitter wasn’t immediate. Crochet admitted to initial hesitation, acknowledging the common concern among pitchers about potential elbow issues associated with the pitch. However, he found a grip that feels comfortable and has allowed him to recover well.
Building on a Breakout Season
This tweak comes on the heels of a phenomenal 2025 season for Crochet. Acquired from the Chicago White Sox, he quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the Red Sox rotation, posting an impressive 18-5 record across 32 starts. His 2.59 ERA ranked sixth in Major League Baseball, and his 1.03 WHIP placed him among the league’s elite.
Crochet didn’t just boast impressive traditional stats. He led the American League with 255 strikeouts, averaging 11.2 strikeouts per nine innings, and limited opponents to a .217 batting average. This performance earned him an All-Star selection and a second-place finish in the AL Cy Young Award voting.
The Strategic Value of a Splitter
The splitter, a pitch gripped similarly to a fastball but thrown with more downward movement, can be a devastating weapon in a pitcher’s arsenal. It disrupts a hitter’s timing and induces ground balls, making it particularly effective against hitters who struggle with velocity. By adding a splitter, Crochet introduces another dimension to his attack, keeping hitters off balance and increasing the likelihood of weak contact.
Crochet’s focus isn’t solely on the new pitch. He’s also working to improve his command with his four-seamer and cutter, demonstrating a commitment to refining all aspects of his game.
Red Sox Rotation Poised for Success
As the Red Sox aim for consecutive postseason appearances for the first time since 2018, the strength of their starting rotation will be crucial. With Crochet leading the charge, the team has a formidable presence at the top of the lineup, capable of consistently delivering quality starts and shutting down opposing offenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What exactly is a splitter?
A: A splitter is a pitch gripped like a fastball but thrown with a firm wrist action to create significant downward movement.
Q: Why do pitchers sometimes avoid throwing splitters?
A: There’s a perception that splitters can put stress on the elbow, although proper technique and grip can mitigate this risk.
Q: What was Garrett Crochet’s record in 2025?
A: He went 18-5 in 32 starts with a 2.59 ERA.
Q: Where did Crochet learn the new splitter grip?
A: He received guidance from Red Sox coaches and a Vanderbilt baseball staff member.
Did you know? Crochet’s 255 strikeouts in 2025 were the most in the American League.
Pro Tip: Pitchers often experiment with different grips and pitches during the offseason to find what works best for their individual mechanics and strengths.
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