MLB Rumors: 4 Landing Spots for Free Agent Lucas Giolito

Lucas Giolito made a nice comeback in 2025 from a year off following an internal brace elbow surgery. In his first and only season with the Boston Red Sox, he posted a 10–4 record, a 3.41 ERA and a 121:56 strike out to walk ratio in 145 innings. He held opposing batters to a .239 average.

He still hasn't had a suitable offer, however, on the free agent market, and he's now the third-best arm left out there (after Framber Valdez and Zac Gallen).

"He’s a medical risk but does have upside and would be a good gamble for someone," writes insider Jim Bowden. He also suggests the top three landing spots for the 31-year-old right-hander.

Boston Red Sox

It would make plenty of sense for the BoSox to run it back with Giolito. Yes, he was a bit inconsistent in '25, but he's another year removed from surgery, and he can build on the 145 innings he threw last year. Boston is looking for another solid arm for the rotation, and they could look to a familiar face. However, they are more aware than anyone that his velocity dipped late in the season and he had to be scratched from a playoff outing due to elbow soreness.

Detroit Tigers

The Tigers are another team that needs to bolster their rotation. After Tarik Skubal, Jack Flaherty and Casey Mize, they've been looking for more veteran depth.

Tigers are one of many teams showing interest in free agent starter Lucas Giolito. If he goes there, he’d join his HS teammate Jack Flaherty on a strong staff
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 25, 2026

As Jon Heyman notes, Giolito was a high school teammate of Flaherty.

Arizona Diamondbacks

If the D-Backs aren't able to bring back Zac Gallen, they'll be one very notable arm short in their rotation. They traded both Gallen and Merrill Kelly at the deadline in July, but have already re-signed Kelly. Giolito would be a cheaper option than Gallen. The Snakes talked with Giolito back in November, but nothing materialized. There's still time to get something done.

Atlanta Braves

A late addition to the Giolito interest, the Braves were pegged this week by Heyman as having a look at the veteran. They, too, have been connected to a few free agent and trade candidates on the pitching market this offseason.