Lucas Giolito set to miss start of 2024 season, likely suffered torn UCL and flexor strain

Free agent pitcher Lucas Giolito will likely miss the start of the 2024 season after experiencing discomfort in his right elbow, the Red Sox announced Tuesday morning.

Manager Alex Cora expressed the team’s disappointment in losing Giolito, especially as Boston struggles to strengthen their bullpen.

“We’re obviously concerned,” Cora told reporters in Florida. “Not a good day for us.”

According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, initial imaging of Giolito’s elbow likely reveals a partially torn UCL and flexor strain. The injury, which could sideline the pitcher for the entire season, may require surgery.

Brutal news: Initial imaging showed Boston Red Sox starter Lucas Giolito likely has a partially torn UCL and flexor strain and could miss the 2024 season, league sources tell ESPN. Giolito, who signed a two-year deal with Boston, may need surgery to repair the right-elbow damage. — Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) March 5, 2024

Giolito underwent Tommy John surgery as a prospect in 2012, however he has remained relatively healthy through his career.

Giolito, who signed a two-year $38.5 million contract this offseason, has remained relatively healthy during his career in the majors. While he underwent Tommy John surgery in 2012 as a prospect, he’s made at least 29 starts in each of the past six seasons.