Lucas Giolito Becomes Free Agent After Declining Mutual Option, Returns from Elbow Surgery

Right-hander Lucas Giolito, 31, has entered free agency after declining a $19 million mutual option with a $1.5 million buyout, concluding a two-season contract worth $38.5 million. Giolito made his season return on April 30 following elbow surgery in March 2024. He posted a 10-4 record with a 3.41 ERA across 26 starts and 145 innings pitched, now seeking a new opportunity on the open market.