The Boston Red Sox are heading into the 2026 season with a major boost on the mound, as their ace prepares to dominate opposing hitters like never before. After a spectacular debut season with the team, fans are buzzing over the latest development that could make Boston’s Opening Day starter even more unstoppable.
This offseason, the Red Sox made it clear that improving their pitching arsenal was a top priority. With the AL lineup constantly evolving, giving their star pitcher a new weapon could create nightmares for opposing hitters and set the tone for a championship-caliber season. Analysts are already calling it one of the most exciting pitching developments heading into spring training.
That ace is Garrett Crochet, who has added a splitter to his pitching repertoire. The new pitch replaces his changeup and was developed with the help of Vanderbilt coach Tyler Herb. Crochet’s addition of the splitter gives him an entirely new look on the mound, making him even more unpredictable and dangerous for opposing lineups.
Crochet comes off a dominant 2025 campaign, his first in Boston, where he posted an 18-5 record with a 2.59 ERA. He led the American League in innings pitched (205.1) and strikeouts (255), immediately exceeding expectations after being traded from the Chicago White Sox. Adding a new pitch only makes him more formidable.
If Crochet can master the splitter quickly, hitters may face an even tougher challenge this season. The pitch has the potential to give him another gear, especially in high-leverage situations late in games. Opposing teams are already taking notice, knowing that a sharper, more versatile Crochet could be a game-changer for the Red Sox.
As Opening Day approaches, all eyes will be on Boston’s ace to see how this new weapon performs in live action. If Crochet can seamlessly integrate the splitter into his arsenal, the Red Sox may have one of the most dangerous pitchers in baseball. For fans, the excitement is real — and the 2026 season just got a lot more interesting.