Lucas Giolito Sets the Record Straight: “I’ll be Ready for Full Spring Training and Regular Season”
BOSTON, MA – In a recent interview, Red Sox starter Lucas Giolito addressed the rumors surrounding his availability for the upcoming season. Giolito, who was acquired by the Red Sox in a trade with the White Sox last season, had been dealing with injuries that raised concerns about his readiness for the 2023 campaign. However, the right-hander was quick to dispel those concerns, stating that he will be ready for a full spring training and regular season.
“I was surprised when I saw some of the graphics saying that I won’t be ready until June,” Giolito said. “Those are inaccurate. I’ve been working hard this offseason, and I’m feeling great. I’m on track to be ready for full spring training and the regular season.”
Giolito’s statement is a welcome relief for Red Sox fans, who had been worried about the team’s starting rotation depth. With Chris Sale and James Paxton returning from injuries, and the departure of Nathan Eovaldi, the Red Sox were facing uncertainty about their rotation. However, Giolito’s declaration that he will be ready to compete for a rotation spot has alleviated some of those concerns.
“I’m ready to compete for a rotation spot if it’s needed,” Giolito said. “I’ve been working on my mechanics, and I’m feeling strong. I’m excited to get to spring training and compete with the other guys. I think we have a great group of pitchers, and I’m looking forward to being a part of it.”
Giolito’s confidence is well-founded, given his track record as a major league starter. In 2021, he went 11-9 with a 3.53 ERA and 201 strikeouts in 31 starts for the White Sox. While he struggled with injuries last season, he still managed to post a respectable 4.90 ERA in 16 starts.
The Red Sox, who have been looking to bolster their starting rotation, are likely to be pleased with Giolito’s progress. With Sale and Paxton returning from injuries, and the addition of Corey Kluber, the Red Sox rotation is starting to take shape. However, Giolito’s availability adds another layer of depth to the rotation, and gives the team more options as they head into spring training.
“Lucas is a talented pitcher, and we’re excited to have him as part of our rotation,” said Red Sox manager Alex Cora. “He’s been working hard this offseason, and we’re looking forward to seeing him compete in spring training. We think he has a lot to offer, and we’re excited to see him contribute to our team.”
Giolito’s return to health is also a testament to the Red Sox’s medical staff and training program. The team has been working to improve its injury prevention and rehabilitation protocols, and Giolito’s progress is a positive sign that those efforts are paying off.
“I’ve been working with the training staff, and they’ve been great,” Giolito said. “They’ve helped me develop a plan to get me ready for the season, and I’m feeling strong. I’m excited to get to spring training and start competing.”
As the Red Sox head into spring training, they will be looking to Giolito to provide a boost to their rotation. With his confidence and determination, he is likely to be a key contributor to the team’s success in 2023.
_Key Statistics:_
– Lucas Giolito: 11-9, 3.53 ERA, 201 strikeouts in 31 starts (2021)
– Red Sox rotation: 4.49 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 9.5 K/9 (2022)
_Post-Interview Reaction:_
– “I’m excited to have Lucas back and healthy. He’s a talented pitcher, and we’re looking forward to seeing him compete in spring training.” – Alex Cora, Red Sox manager
– “Lucas has been working hard this offseason, and we’re pleased with his progress. He’s a key part of our rotation, and we’re excited to see him contribute to our team.” – Chaim Bloom, Red Sox chief baseball officer
– “I’m feeling great, and I’m ready to compete for a rotation spot. I’m excited to get to spring training and start working with the team.” – Lucas Giolito, Red Sox starter
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