UPDATE: Boston Red Sox right-hander Lucas Giolito has been officially ruled out for the American League Wild Card Series against the New York Yankees due to an elbow injury, manager Alex Cora announced today. This crucial news comes just ahead of the first game, scheduled for 6 p.m. ET tomorrow on ESPN.
Giolito, expected to pitch in the pivotal third game of the best-of-three series, has been experiencing discomfort in his elbow for several days. Cora stated, “He’s been battling with his elbow the last few days… Hopefully, it’s nothing major, but he won’t be ready for this series.” This injury raises significant concerns for the Red Sox as they enter the playoffs.
The 31-year-old pitcher boasts a strong season record of 10-4 with a 3.41 ERA and 121 strikeouts over 26 starts. However, his recent performance indicates issues; Cora noted that Giolito’s velocity has decreased, forcing him to cut short his last bullpen session. To assess the injury further, Giolito has been referred to Dr. Jeffrey Dugas, an orthopedic surgeon known for his expertise in elbow surgeries at the Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center in Alabama.
Giolito has a history of elbow problems, having undergone internal brace surgery on March 12, 2022, to repair his ulnar collateral ligament. He also had Tommy John surgery in September 2012. With Giolito sidelined, the Red Sox will have to strategize for their pitching lineup, with Kyle Harrison and Connelly Early emerging as potential replacements for Game 3, should it be necessary.
As the Red Sox gear up to face the Yankees, fans are left anxious about the impact of Giolito’s absence on their playoff chances. The team has been preparing all season for this moment, and losing a key player could alter their trajectory in the postseason.
Stay tuned for further updates on Giolito’s condition and the Red Sox’s performance in the Wild Card Series. The stakes are high as Boston aims to overcome this setback and push forward in the playoffs.
