It sure sounds like the Cubs will be the winners of the Lucas Giolito sweepstakes

The tone surrounding the Chicago Cubs and Lucas Giolito appears to have shifted this week. In the immediate aftermath of Cade Horton's injury, the impression was that internal depth was going to be the crutch. Further injuries to Jaxon Wiggins, Matthew Boyd, Hunter Harvey, and Phil Maton appear to have altered the plan. A report earlier this week confirmed that the Cubs are interested in Giolito, and they now could be viewed as the favorites to sign the former Chicago White Sox ace.

Multiple reports have confirmed this week that the Cubs and San Diego Padres are the two teams expressing the most interest in Giolito. The Padres are dealing with the loss of Nick Pivetta, but their payroll situation could prevent them from pushing a deal with the veteran free-agent across the finish line.

Expanding on the Padres' interest in Giolito, Jon Heyman told The Score Chicago that San Diego may not have the money available to sign the 31-year-old starting pitcher. Beyond that, Heyman noted that Giolito is now willing to accept a one-year deal.

The Cubs and Padres are the two teams that continue to be linked to having interest in right-hander Lucas Giolito, and the Padres have essentially "zero money," @JonHeyman says.

Giolito previously wanted a 2-year deal but is now willing to sign a 1-year contract, Heyman says. pic.twitter.com/0BaMlc9UK7
— 104.3 The Score (@thescorechicago) April 16, 2026

Lucas Giolito may fall into the Cubs' lap.

Even with the Cubs' pitching depth suddenly in question, it never felt like they would reach the point where they would be willing to give Giolito a two-year deal. There are red flags in his profile, especially with his expected metrics. But beggars can't be choosers. The Cubs need capable arms in the rotation, but most importantly, they need stability in the bullpen.

Giolito's arrival would push Colin Rea back to the bullpen, and that ultimately would be the best path forward as the team waits for the rest of the pitching staff to get healthy.

If Giolito is planning on pitching this season, he would likely need to make a decision soon. He wasn't with a team during spring training, and while he's reportedly up to 75 pitches during his personal bullpen session, a minor-league assignment would likely be the first order of business. It could also speak to why the Cubs may be acting with urgency, eager to start Giolito's ramp-up as soon as possible.

Add us as a preferred source on Google

Lucas Giolito may fall into the Cubs' lap.

Schedule