Red Sox Pitcher Lucas Giolito Out for Wild Card Series Against Yankees Due to Elbow Discomfort
Breaking News: Red Sox Starter Lucas Giolito Faces Elbow Injury Setback
Key Players and Injury Concerns for the Red Sox
The Red Sox’s pitching roster takes a significant hit as starter Lucas Giolito grapples with right elbow discomfort, sidelining him for the Wild Card Series against the Yankees. Giolito was absent from Monday’s practice at Yankee Stadium, opting to visit Dr. Jeffrey Dugas in Alabama. The orthopedist, who conducted an internal brace procedure on Giolito’s elbow earlier this year, is assessing the injury.
Manager Alex Cora Expresses Concerns
Red Sox Manager Alex Cora shared insights on Giolito’s ongoing battle with his elbow. “He’s been battling with his elbow the last few days,” Cora mentioned. “Hopefully it’s nothing major, but he won’t be ready for this one.” Giolito, who has experienced decreased velocity in his recent performances, was evidently dealing with soreness during that period. Cora added, “I believe he was fighting it.”
Impact on the Red Sox’s Roster and Strategy
Despite Giolito’s efforts to participate, he was forced to curtail a bullpen session last week, with his condition worsening. “He didn’t look too good, especially [Sunday]. That’s the reason we sent him to see the doctor,” Cora explained. The uncertainty looms over Giolito’s availability for future playoff rounds should the Red Sox progress.
Alternative Pitching Options for the Series
With Giolito’s absence, the Red Sox have turned to Garrett Crochet for Game 1 and Brayan Bello for Game 2. In the event of a Game 3, Cora mentioned lefthanders such as Connelly Early and Kyle Harrison as potential starters. “We’ll go the first two games, and then we’ll decide,” Cora said, highlighting the flexibility in the lineup.
- Game 1: Garrett Crochet
- Game 2: Brayan Bello
- Game 3 Alternatives: Connelly Early, Kyle Harrison
Team Reaction to Giolito’s Absence
Giolito, having been a pivotal figure between mid-June and mid-September, leaves a significant void in the team’s lineup. “We’re all thinking about Lucas,” commented Crochet. “There’s never a good time for it, but this is a tough time for it. It’s a big blow. He’s a great arm. I think that he strikes fear in opposing lineups. We’ll be missing him. He’ll be in the dugout with us. He’s a great teammate and a guy that has a lot of experience. I think that his mind will lend us a helping hand, but we’ll be missing him, for sure.”
Stay tuned to El-Balad for further updates on this developing story and the Red Sox’s playoff journey. Keep up with all the latest news and updates from the world of sports.
