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As the Boston Red Sox grapple with a rocky 1-4 start to the season and Rafael Devers’ uncharacteristic slump, fans are desperate for a spark. Veteran pitcher Lucas Giolito, sidelined since spring training with a left hamstring strain, is inching closer to a return—but not fast enough. The former All-Star is set to begin a minor-league rehab assignment with Triple-A Worcester, though his workload will be tightly managed.
With Boston’s rotation in flux, hopes are high for Giolito’s comeback. But will he be cleared in time to face the St. Louis Cardinals? Here’s the latest.
Lucas Giolito’s cautious road back
Giolito’s rehab debut Wednesday will see him toss just three innings for the WooSox, facing the Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp. The Red Sox have outlined a gradual ramp-up plan, scheduling three minor-league outings to rebuild his stamina and test his health.
This cautious approach stems from last year’s Tommy John surgery, which cut short his 2023 campaign, and the recent hamstring setback that delayed his 2025 debut.
While the right-hander’s fastball command and secondary pitches will be under scrutiny, Boston’s focus is squarely on his physical readiness. “We’re taking it day by day,” a team insider noted, emphasizing that Lucas Giolito’s timeline hinges on pain tolerance and recovery post-outings.
From ace to uncertainty: Giolito’s rollercoaster journey
Once a frontline starter with the White Sox (3.47 ERA from 2019-2021), Giolito’s stock plummeted after a turbulent 2023. Traded to the Angels and later claimed by the Guardians, he struggled to a combined 6.96 ERA over 12 starts, leaving his future in doubt.
The Red Sox took a $38 million gamble this offseason, betting on a return to form. Yet, with his injury history and recent inconsistencies, skepticism lingers.
Cardinals Clash: Too Soon?
Given Lucas Giolito’s rehab schedule, a return against St. Louis appears unlikely. His third minor-league start would align just days before the series, leaving insufficient time for MLB activation. Barring a dramatic acceleration, the Red Sox will likely rely on their current rotation, leaving Giolito to target a mid-May debut.
For Lucas Giolito, the path forward is clear: Prove durability, rediscover efficiency, and silence doubters. For Boston, patience is key—rushing him risks derailing both his recovery and their slim margin for error. While the Cardinals series comes too soon, his eventual return could still shift the tide in a season teetering on the brink.
