As Opening Day 2025 approaches, the pressure is mounting for one Boston Red Sox pitcher whose future in Beantown is on shaky ground unless he can deliver a significant turnaround.
The upcoming MLB season is shaping up to be pivotal for many teams, including the Red Sox. With their playoff drought now at three consecutive years, the heat is on for manager Alex Cora and his squad to prove they can stay competitive beyond the All-Star break.
However, the stakes aren’t just high for the team — they’re especially critical for certain individuals. Among them is veteran right-hander Lucas Giolito, whose future with the franchise is uncertain as he enters a make-or-break year.
Giolito’s tenure in Boston has been rocky since he signed with the team in January 2024. Despite his impressive track record — including four double-digit-win seasons and three top-11 finishes in AL Cy Young voting since 2019 — injuries have kept him from playing a single regular-season game for the Red Sox.
Heading into spring training, fans were hopeful that the 30-year-old pitcher could finally showcase his talent. Unfortunately, his time on the mound was cut short when he exited his first exhibition game with a hamstring injury, landing him on the 15-day injured list to start the season. Giolito has since expressed frustration with the team’s decision, indicating a disconnect between him and the organization.
When he does return, Giolito will need to perform at a high level to justify his $19 million salary in 2025. A return to his 2021 form — when he went 11-9 with a 3.53 ERA and 201 strikeouts over 31 starts — could secure his place in Boston. However, continued health issues or subpar performances might prompt the Red Sox to decline his $14 million team option for 2026 or even explore trade options before the July deadline.
Once a dependable starter, Giolito now faces the challenge of proving he can still be that reliable presence. Regardless of how long he remains in Boston, the Red Sox will undoubtedly benefit if he can return to form and contribute to a winning culture.