Former Red Sox Pitcher Finally Finds New Home With Padres

Free agent starting pitcher Lucas Giolito

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Lucas Giolito finally has a new home.

After going unsigned during the offseason, the former Boston Red Sox starting pitcher officially joined the San Diego Padres on Wednesday. He signed a one-year deal with a mutual option for 2027.

That comes as a relief for the 31-year-old right-hander, who surprisingly didn't generate much interest over the winter despite coming off a strong bounce-back season with the Red Sox. In 26 starts last season, Giolito went 10-4 with a 3.41 ERA and 2.1 WAR, helping Boston make the playoffs.

The former All-Star has battled injuries and been inconsistent over the last few seasons, however, which may have scared teams off in free agency, especially given his age. The Padres are dealing with injuries and need pitching depth, leading them to scoop up Giolito.

While his strikeout rate sank to 7.5 K/9 last year, he should benefit from Petco Park as he tries to replicate last season's success.

He'll join former Red Sox players Xander Bogaerts and in San Diego, which is second in the NL West entering play on Wednesday.