White Sox Lucas Giolito Opens Up About Future in Chicago

The Chicago White Sox were able to get pen to paper when it comes to right-handed starter Lucas Giolito. The team avoided arbitration with the hurler as the two sides agreed to a one-year $7.45-million contract to avoid the awkwardness on Friday. Turns out the pitcher is hopeful to stick around the windy city long term.

Giolito spoke to The Athletic's James Fegan on Friday and had this to say about his aspirations:

No place else I'd rather be. I've got a couple years here to try and step my game up and be that elite-caliber guy and see if we'll be able to make something happen in the future

In 2021 the White Sox starter emerged with a career-high 178.2 innings pitched which resulted in a 11-9 record to go along with a 3.53 ERA, a 1.10 WHIP and 201 strikeouts. Certainly impressive numbers from the 27-year-old who also mentioned he's happy with management and praised them for working their asses off to try and improve the ball club.

The White Sox are expected to be one of the top teams in the AL this season and should contend for their divisional crown. If they do, it could be because of Giolito and company getting it done on the mound.

@LGio27 Huge thank you to Lucas Giolito. You made my 10 year old daughter’s day yesterday in Glendale. Not only did you sign her (and every other fan’s) ball, when you saw her Liam Hendriks’ jersey you made sure she got his too. Thank you! From the girl with the softball! pic.twitter.com/IfBV2G3XTr
— Bob Stanker (@BobStanker) April 1, 2022