Friars make surprise move to bolster rotation depth
San Diego signs Giolito to one-year deal
BOSTON, MA - SEPTEMBER 12: Lucas Giolito #24 of the Boston Red Sox pitches during the game between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on Friday, September 12, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images The San Diego Padres addressed their rotation needs about as quickly as the Friar Faithful could hope for. The Padres announced this morning that they have signed right-hander Lucas Giolito to a one-year contract with a mutual option for 2027.
In a corresponding move, Bryan Hoeing was moved from the 40-man roster to the 60-day IL. One start seems to have been enough for knuckleballer Matt Waldron, who will likely be replaced by the now-signed Giolito. The move is great for the Friars, and it’s perfect timing.
With Nick Pivetta indefinitely confined to the injured list, and Griffin Canning and Joe Musgrove still somewhat far off, Giolito is a perfect filler for the Padres. Best case scenario, he breaks out and puts up an even better year than his 3. 41 ERA mark from 2025.
That mark tied his career-best (2019) when pitching 20-plus starts in a season. Giolito’s biggest strength for the Padres is that he can eat innings. He’s a truly solid starter who can keep San Diego in games.