Lucas Giolito

Lucas Giolito said on Audacy’s “Baseball Isn’t Boring” podcast that he has fully recovered from the right elbow injury that sidelined him late last season. The right-hander began his offseason throwing program in mid-October and reported that his elbow felt “100 percent fine” just days after the initial soreness. Giolito missed the postseason for Boston but expects no lingering issues heading into free agency.

Fantasy Impact

Giolito’s clean bill of health should restore his standing as one of the more reliable veteran starters on the market. The 31-year-old posted a 3.41 ERA with a 121:56 K:BB across 145 innings for the Red Sox in 2025, and a healthy offseason should make him an attractive target for teams seeking mid-rotation stability. Assuming he lands in a favorable situation, Giolito profiles as a solid fantasy option in 2026 drafts.

Lucas Giolito has declined his portion of a $19 million mutual option for the 2026 season.

Fantasy Impact

Giolito is now free to test the open market, but Boston does have the right to extend Giolito a one-year qualifying offer. After posting solid numbers in 2025, Giolito could have multiple teams calling that need help in their rotation for the 2026 season.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora said Lucas Giolito is not expected to pitch in October.

Fantasy Impact

Cora said the elbow injury doesn’t seem as severe for Giolito. He still isn't expected to pitch in October.

Lucas Giolito will miss the Boston Red Sox's American League Wild Card Series against the New York Yankees due to an elbow injury.

Fantasy Impact

Giolito is scheduled to visit with Dr. Jeffrey Dugas, who performed his internal brace surgery on his pitching elbow in March 2024. The Red Sox will provide an update on the severity of the injury and his availability for the playoffs after the visit. Connelly Early or Kyle Harrison would start a potential Game 3 for the Red Sox.

Lucas Giolito allowed one run over 4 2/3 innings on Tuesday against the Blue Jays.

Fantasy Impact

Giolito was able to work around some trouble, while also appearing to have some luck on his side in an at-bat by George Springer. He could make one more start in the regular season on Sunday.