Giolito’s Future: A Potential Move to the AL East
As the offseason unfolds, Lucas Giolito finds himself at a crossroads in his career, having wrapped up a two-year, $38.5 million stint with the Boston Red Sox. The team’s decision not to issue him a qualifying offer at the start of free agency was seen as a favor that will allow him to sign with any team without the burden of draft pick compensation. However, in light of the recent trend where several quality pitchers accepted qualifying offers, Giolito may be reconsidering his position as free agency begins.
Health and Performance Post-Red Sox
Despite a late-season elbow injury, Giolito appears to be fully healthy as he enters free agency. His performance in Boston was respectable, delivering a 3.41 ERA across 26 starts and amassing a 10-4 win-loss record. While these numbers paint a picture of a solid contributor, they could be misleading. A closer examination reveals that Giolito benefited from exceptional defensive support and, at times, was fortunate to avoid home runs despite allowing significant contact. His 4.17 FIP suggests that his ERA may not fully reflect the performance he could deliver.
Possible Landing Spot: Baltimore Orioles
With Giolito’s future in question, speculation about where he might land is heating up. Notably, Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter has predicted that Giolito could sign with the Baltimore Orioles. The Orioles, who struggled with their starting pitching last season, are looking to bolster their rotation and avoid repeating past mistakes as they prepare for the approaching 2026 season.
Reuter pointed out that a full season from young pitchers Trevor Rogers and Kyle Bradish, who combined for just 24 starts last year, would be beneficial. He suggested that adding Giolito could provide the veteran presence needed to solidify their rotation, potentially slotting him as a No. 2 or No. 3 starter.
Red Sox Fans on Alert
While the prospect of Giolito joining a division rival like the Orioles may not be ideal for Red Sox fans, it’s a reality they may soon face. Should Giolito end up in Baltimore, he could pose a significant challenge to Boston in upcoming matchups. Although he might not be the primary target for the Red Sox at this moment, his ability to disrupt their plans remains a concern.
As the free agency period continues, all eyes will be on Giolito as teams in the AL East, particularly the Orioles, evaluate their options for strengthening their rotations. With his recent performance and health restored, Giolito could very well become a key player in shaping the competitive dynamics of the division in the years to come.
