Red Sox Sign Lucas Giolito to a Two-Year Contract
Right-handed pitcher Lucas Giolito has reached an agreement with the Boston Red Sox on a two-year, $38.5 million contract, according to sources.
Details of the Contract
The deal between Lucas Giolito and the Boston Red Sox includes an opt-out clause after the first season. In addition to his base salary, Giolito has the opportunity to earn performance bonuses based on innings pitched that could bring the total value of the contract to $40.5 million.
Under the terms of the contract, Giolito will receive an $18 million salary in 2024 and a $1 million buyout if he chooses to opt out. If he remains with the team for the second year, his salary for 2025 will be $19 million.
There is also a conditional option for 2026. If Giolito pitches fewer than 140 innings in 2025, there is a $14 million club option for the team. If he pitches over 140 innings, there is a $19 million mutual option, with a $1.5 million buyout.
Giolito's Performance in Recent Seasons
Lucas Giolito, who is 29 years old, had a strong season in 2023, despite some struggles. He pitched a career-high 184⅓ innings and recorded 204 strikeouts, which was the 13th most in the league. However, he allowed a league-high 41 home runs, resulting in a 4.88 ERA.
In the previous three seasons, Giolito established himself as one of the top starters in baseball. He consistently threw over 160 innings each season, earning Cy Young votes and maintaining ERAs below 4.00. He joins a select group of pitchers, including Gerrit Cole, Aaron Nola, Charlie Morton, Jose Berrios, and Kyle Gibson, who have achieved this feat.
Both the Boston Red Sox and the New York Mets expressed interest in signing Giolito. Ultimately, the Red Sox were able to secure him, adding him to a rotation that includes Chris Sale and Brayan Bello. The Red Sox had initially pursued other high-profile free agents but adjusted their strategy after missing out on those signings.
Impact on the Red Sox
The addition of Lucas Giolito strengthens the Boston Red Sox's starting rotation. They had previously made minimal investments in free agency, but this signing demonstrates their commitment to improving their pitching staff. With Giolito on board, the Red Sox have a solid group of starting pitchers to rely on for the upcoming season.
After finishing with a record of 78-84 in 2023, the Red Sox made changes to their front office. They replaced chief baseball officer Chaim Bloom with former pitcher Craig Breslow. The signing of Giolito, along with other strategic moves, could help the team bounce back and compete for a playoff spot in the future.
