Red Sox Lock Up Bello with $55 Million Contract Amid Giolito Injury Concerns

Red Sox Lock Up Bello with $55 Million Contract Amid Giolito Injury Concerns

The Boston Red Sox have secured the long-term services of their top returning pitcher, Brayan Bello, with a lucrative $55 million, six-year contract. The deal comes amidst concerns over the health of Lucas Giolito, who is facing an elbow injury.

Bello, 24, emerged as a key contributor for the Red Sox last season, posting a 12-11 record with a 4.24 ERA in 28 starts. His impressive performance has earned him a significant investment from the team, who view him as a cornerstone of their rotation.

The contract includes a $21 million team option for 2030 with a $1 million buyout, potentially extending the deal to seven seasons and $75 million. This move demonstrates the Red Sox’s commitment to building a competitive team around Bello’s talents.

However, the news of Giolito’s injury casts a shadow over the Red Sox’s offseason plans. The 29-year-old right-hander was expected to be a key addition to the rotation, but his elbow discomfort has raised concerns about his availability.

Meanwhile, Michael Harris II continues to impress in the Grapefruit League for the Atlanta Braves. The young outfielder has hit three home runs in 18 at-bats, showcasing his power and potential.

Matt Chapman is also set to make his Cactus League debut for the San Francisco Giants after signing a $54 million, three-year deal. The third baseman will provide a boost to the Giants’ infield and is expected to be a key contributor in their quest for a World Series title.

Unfortunately, the Chicago Cubs have suffered a setback with the news that right-hander Caleb Kilian has a teres major strain. The 26-year-old is expected to be out until the All-Star break, leaving a void in the Cubs’ rotation.

Red Sox Starter Giolito Faces Opening Day Uncertainty Due to Elbow Discomfort

Red Sox Starter Giolito Faces Opening Day Uncertainty Due to Elbow Discomfort

Red Sox Starter Lucas Giolito Faces Opening Day Uncertainty Due to Elbow Discomfort

FORT MYERS, Fla. – The Boston Red Sox have been dealt a significant setback with the news that right-handed starter Lucas Giolito is likely to miss opening day and potentially longer due to discomfort in his elbow.

Manager Alex Cora confirmed the injury on Tuesday, stating that Giolito will undergo further examinations to determine the severity of the issue. “We’re obviously concerned. Not a good day for us,” Cora told reporters.

Giolito, who signed a $38.5 million, two-year deal with the Red Sox this offseason, has made two starts in spring training. While he pitched two scoreless innings in his first outing, he struggled in his second start against Minnesota last Friday, allowing four runs and three walks in 2 1/3 innings. It was after that outing that Giolito reported the discomfort in his elbow.

The injury is a major blow to the Red Sox, who were counting on Giolito to be a key part of their rotation. The 29-year-old was the first overall pick by the Washington Nationals in the 2012 draft and has established himself as a solid starter in the majors.

In 2023, Giolito pitched for the White Sox, Angels, and Guardians, posting a 4.88 ERA and allowing a league-high 41 home runs. However, he has shown flashes of brilliance in the past, earning an All-Star selection in 2019 and averaging 11.1 strikeouts per nine innings from 2019-21.

The Red Sox were hoping to see that version of Giolito when they signed him this winter. However, the elbow discomfort has cast a shadow over his availability for the start of the season. The team will await the results of further examinations before determining the extent of the injury and Giolito’s timeline for return.

MLB Injury Bug Bites Verlander, Gray, Giolito

MLB Injury Bug Bites Verlander, Gray, Giolito

MLB Injury Woes: Verlander, Gray, Giolito Sidelined

The MLB season is approaching, but three prominent right-handed starting pitchers are facing injuries that could delay their starts.

Houston Astros ace Justin Verlander will begin the season on the injured list due to inflammation in his pitching shoulder. St. Louis Cardinals’ Sonny Gray has a hamstring strain, while Boston Red Sox’s Lucas Giolito is experiencing discomfort in his pitching elbow.

Verlander’s injury is considered a setback rather than a long-term concern. The 41-year-old is expected to throw in the bullpen again on Friday but has yet to face hitters. However, a delay to the start of the season could jeopardize his $35 million option for 2025.

Giolito’s injury is more concerning. The 29-year-old will undergo additional exams to determine the severity of the issue. He had a disappointing 2023 season, allowing a league-high 41 home runs and posting a 4.88 ERA.

Gray may have the best chance of returning for opening day, which he was scheduled to start against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 28. The Cardinals are hopeful that the mild strain will allow him to recover in time.

Meanwhile, Atlanta Braves’ Ronald Acuña Jr. is expected to be ready for opening day after a thorough examination of his sore right knee revealed no serious issues.

New York Yankees catcher Jose Trevino is also nearing a return from a calf injury. The 31-year-old is recovering from a wrist injury that limited him to 55 games last season.

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