Lucas Giolito tried to find comfort watching Garrett Crochet and the Red Sox beat the Yankees in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series. But while Boston celebrated, their veteran ace was crushed by devastating news.
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🚨 Red Sox Lose Key Starter Right Before Postseason Push
Giolito made 26 straight starts with a 3.41 ERA, and was lined up for a Game 3 do-or-die if needed. Now, that huge assignment could fall to rookie Connelly Early.
😢 “I Haven’t Even Processed It Yet” — Giolito Speaks Out
“This happened so fast,” Giolito said after Boston’s 3-1 victory. “After everything I fought through last year, to have this chance ripped away in October…it’s devastating.”
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⏳ Terrible Timing for Free Agency
At 31, Giolito is entering free agency this winter — and instead of showcasing his arm on the biggest stage, he’ll face questions about his health.
⚠️ The Injury That Almost Ended His Season
Giolito first felt soreness on September 17 against Oakland, then struggled through another start in Toronto.
By the final week, a bullpen session forced him to shut things down. He flew to Alabama fearing another major elbow surgery — but imaging showed no structural damage.
💪 Good News: No Surgery Needed
“In simple terms, my flexor is inflamed and there’s weird stuff with my bone,” Giolito explained. “They told me: stop throwing, let it calm down. The relief is knowing structurally my elbow is fine.”
🧨 Sox Rotation Shake-Up: Rookie Thrown Into Spotlight
Giolito made 26 straight starts with a 3.41 ERA, and was lined up for a Game 3 do-or-die if needed. Now, that huge assignment could fall to rookie Connelly Early.
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⏳ Terrible Timing for Free Agency
At 31, Giolito is entering free agency this winter — and instead of showcasing his arm on the biggest stage, he’ll face questions about his health.
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🏆 “It’s Not About Me — It’s About the Red Sox”
Despite the heartbreak, Giolito insists his focus remains on the team. “My role’s different now, but I’ll be here for these guys as we chase the ultimate goal.”
