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If a starting pitcher has the tiniest scent of being available at the MLB trade deadline, the Chicago Cubs will come calling. The Cubs have already cast a wide net of potential deadline targets, and with the All-Star break next week, more names are being added to the list of Cubs' targets. Chicago Sports Radio icon George Ofman mentions that the Cubs are keeping tabs on Lucas Giolito of the Boston Red Sox.
Now, Ofman isn't of the same credibility as Jeff Passan or Ken Rosenthal, but given his time in the city and working local airwaves, the rumor does deserve some attention.
Giolito inked a two-year deal with the Red Sox before the 2024 season, but an elbow injury wiped away his first season in Boston. Now healthy, Giolito has flashed signs of being the top-of-the-rotation starting pitcher he once was with the Chicago White Sox. Through his first 13 starts this season, Giolito has an ERA of 3.36. His expected ERA, 4.70, suggests there has been a decent amount of luck involved in his outings this season, but the Cubs' defense likely would help keep that trend going.
Lucas Giolito could be unlikely answer to rotation struggles
Giolito's deal with the Red Sox includes a mutual option for the 2026 season. However, if Giolito is held under 140 innings pitched this season, the option converts to a $14MM club option. Currently, Giolito has a tick over 72 innings pitched this season.
The Red Sox are at the center of the American League Wild-Card race, so if that remains the case at the deadline, it would seem unlikely that Giolito would be made available. If the Red Sox become sellers, the Cubs likely will check in on the former South Side ace.
Interest in Giolito would speak to the idea of the Cubs getting creative in their search for a starting pitcher. He also wouldn't have the same cost as trading for Merrill Kelly or Seth Lugo would have. It's something the Cubs may need to consider, with there being a small number of sellers despite most contending teams needing pitching.