Lucas Giolito’s Successful Return to Washington

Boston Red Sox Pitcher Excels Against Former Team

Boston Red Sox pitcher Lucas Giolito returned to Washington on Friday. He put on a great show. This continues his impressive performance over the past month.

Giolito’s Excellent Performance

The right-hander pitched 7 2/3 innings in his first game against the team that drafted him. He allowed only one run in Boston’s 11-2 win over the Washington Nationals.

Giolito gave up just four hits. He struck out seven batters. This earned him his first victory at Nationals Park.

Looking Back

Giolito did not feel much sentimentality about his return. “Not really,” Giolito said. “It’s been so long. Nine, 10 years ago I debuted here. I was excited to come back because it’s been so long. I’m not facing any of the same guys. It’s a different team now.”

Giolito was Washington’s first-round pick in 2012. He reached the majors in 2016. He had a 6.75 ERA in six appearances that season. The Nationals traded him to the Chicago White Sox in December 2016.

Giolito’s Career Path

“I pitched very differently back then,” Giolito said. “Every baseball player’s career has ups and downs. It’s been a long road. I look forward to many more, even the downs. Coming back from those is more satisfying than being good all the time.”

Giolito pitched seven seasons with the White Sox. He also played with the Los Angeles Angels and Cleveland late in the 2023 season. He missed all of last year after elbow surgery.

Recent Achievements

A hamstring strain kept Giolito out until April 30 this season. He struggled in three of his first seven starts. But in his last five outings since June 10, he has been outstanding:

• 4-0 record
• 0.83 ERA
• Lowered his ERA from 6.42 to 3.66

He was sharp against the Nationals. He scattered four hits and three walks. He threw a season-high 108 pitches in his longest outing since August 9, 2021.

Manager’s Commendation

“He didn’t want to come out,” manager Alex Cora said. “I appreciate that. He’s a competitor. He feels like the more pitches he throws, the better it is for him.”