Cronin did not play in a game in 2020 due to the cancellation of the minor league season because of the COVID-19 pandemic.[6] He returned to action in 2021 with the High–A Winston-Salem Dash and Double–A Birmingham Barons. In 35 appearances out of the bullpen, Cronin registered a 5–2 record and 4.56 ERA with 43 strikeouts across 47+1⁄3 innings pitched.[7]
Cronin split the 2022 season between Birmingham and the Triple–A Charlotte Knights, making 49 total appearances and logging a 3.71 ERA and 36 strikeouts and 2 saves across 51.0 innings of work.[8] He began the 2023 season back with Charlotte, and recorded a 4.03 ERA in 44+2⁄3 innings.[9]
On July 28, 2023, Cronin was selected to the 40-man roster and promoted to the major leagues for the first time.[10][11] In 9 appearances for Chicago in his debut campaign, he allowed 11 runs on 11 hits and 7 walks with 8 strikeouts. On December 28, Cronin was designated for assignment.[12]
Miami Marlins
On January 4, 2024, Cronin was claimed off waivers by the Houston Astros.[13] He was designated for assignment on January 31, following the waiver claim of Trey Cabbage.[14] He was then claimed by the Miami Marlins on February 7.[15]
In 2024, Cronin made 56 appearances for the Marlins, recording a 4.35 ERA and 72 strikeouts in 70.1 innings. He pitched 65.0 innings before allowing his first home run, a Marlins franchise record and the most innings to start a season without surrendering a home run since 2014.[16] At the conclusion of the 2024 campaign, he was named the Marlins Rookie of the Year by the BBWAA.[17]
Personal life
Cronin has been the Assistant Director of Operations for Tread Athletics, a Charlotte, North Carolina-based baseball training facility whose clientele includes major-league players and prospects, since 2020.[18][19]
His hobbies include playing chess. He was playing an online match when he was informed of his promotion to the White Sox.[20]
