Don’t rule out the Baltimore Orioles signing former Boston Red Sox right-hander Lucas Giolito in February.
The New York Post’s Jon Heyman had this to say about the Orioles on Thursday:
“(Framber) Valdez has been in talks with the Orioles for months but they’re also seriously considering Zac Gallen, Lucas Giolito and others.”
Giolito’s 2025 season with the Red Sox marked a solid rebound following his recovery from elbow surgery that sidelined him throughout 2024. In 26 starts, the right-hander posted a 10-4 record with a 3.41 ERA over 145 innings pitched. He recorded 121 strikeouts while issuing 56 walks, resulting in a 1.29 WHIP.
His performance proved reliable for a Boston rotation needing stability down the stretch, with strong showings in several outings, including effective command in key games late in the regular-season campaign, though he missed the playoffs due to a right elbow issue, from which he has since reported full recovery.
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Overall in his career through 2025, spanning nine MLB seasons with teams including the Washington Nationals, Chicago White Sox, Cleveland Guardians, Los Angeles Angels, and Red Sox, Giolito has compiled a 71-66 record and a 4.30 ERA across 206 games (204 starts) and 1,158 2/3 innings. He has amassed 1,198 strikeouts with a 1.26 WHIP. Earlier peaks came during his 2019-2021 stretch with the White Sox, where he earned Cy Young consideration votes in each year for his sharp stuff and results.
Giolito remains a free agent after declining his 2026 player option with Boston. Recent reports indicate interest from clubs like the Orioles, Detroit Tigers, and others seeking rotation depth.
The veteran pitcher enters his age-31 season positioned to provide mid-rotation experience and potential upside to a contending team.
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