Lucas Giolito to Miss AL Wild-Card Series Due to Elbow Injury

The Boston Red Sox face a significant setback as right-hander Lucas Giolito will be absent from the American League wild-card series due to an elbow injury. This unexpected development will affect the team’s pitching rotation as they head into their crucial playoff games.

Giolito’s Role and Injury Details

Lucas Giolito, 31, was slated to start the potential decisive Game 3 in the best-of-three series beginning Thursday. He had been expected to follow teammates Garrett Crochet, who boasts an impressive record of 18-5, and Brayan Bello with 11-9.

"It’s a big blow," stated Crochet. "He’s a great arm, and I think that he strikes fear in opposing lineups."

Medical Evaluation

Giolito underwent an examination by Dr. Jeffrey Dugas at the Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center. Previously, Giolito had internal brace surgery on March 12 last year to repair his ulnar collateral ligament.

"He’s been battling with his elbow the last few days, and today he went to see Dr. Dugas," said Red Sox manager Alex Cora. "Hopefully, it’s nothing major, but he won’t be ready for this one."

Replacement Candidates

With Giolito sidelined, the Red Sox are considering alternatives for the crucial Game 3. Potential candidates include:

• Connelly Early: 1-2 record
• Kyle Harrison: 1-1 record with San Francisco before his trade to Boston

Upcoming Opponents

The New York pitching lineup includes:

• Max Fried: 19-5 record
• Carlos Rodón: 18-9 record
• Rookie Cam Schlittler: 4-3 record

Performance Insights

During September, Giolito’s performance showed a declining trend, with his average fastball velocity dropping from 93.9 mph on August 26 to 92.1 mph by September 23. He ended the month with an 0-2 record and a 3.66 ERA over four starts.

"I believe he was fighting it. He was going to throw a bullpen during the week, and we had to cut it short," stated Cora. "After Saturday and Sunday, he didn’t look too good, especially yesterday."

Season Overview

In the current season, Giolito has an impressive 10-4 record with a 3.41 ERA across 26 starts. He is an established player in Major League Baseball, having undergone Tommy John surgery in 2012.

Career Stats

• All-Star in 2019
• Career record: 71-66
• Career ERA: 4.30

Conclusion

Lucas Giolito’s absence due to his elbow injury is undoubtedly a significant blow to the Boston Red Sox as they prepare for their critical playoff series against New York. The team now looks to its remaining pitchers to step up and fill the gap left by the talented right-hander.

For more updates and in-depth coverage of the playoffs, visit MLB.com for real-time statistics and analysis.

For insights into Giolito’s previous surgeries and their impact on his performance, check out Healthline.

Use these links to stay informed of the Boston Red Sox’s journey through the playoffs and the performance of their key players!