The Boston Red Sox are grappling with a big decision from Craig Breslow that could change how they handle their pitching staff in 2025. They’re seriously considering moving to a six-man rotation, which has stirred up some mixed feelings among the players. Some think, it’s a smart move to keep everyone fresh, while others, like starter Lucas Giolito, aren’t so sure.  

Giolito, who’s back from injury, has voiced concerns about whether this new approach might throw off the flow of the staff, especially when it comes to building consistency. With the Red Sox trying to put together a competitive squad for next season, whether this clear pitching strategy would work remains a question.

Lucas Giolito is concerned about the team’s decision 

Lucas recently mentioned that he does not personally like the potential switch to a six-man rotation. For the Red Sox pitcher, the traditional four-day rest schedule works best. Why? Because it helps Giolito find the rhythm and consistency he needs on the mound. “I don’t love 6-man rotations. I feel like when I’m in a good grove of that 4-day rest, that feels right for me personally. I’m not going to be holding a picket sign, if it benefits the team, I get it.” Giolito said. It seems he is concerned about the conflict between what is best for the pitchers and the entire team.

Even though the #54 is not fully sold on the six-man rotation concept, he is not completely against it. The Californian appreciates it if it strengthens the team and spares the staff from burning out. There were even rumors about Giolito not being able to participate at the beginning of the 2025 season. Why? Because he has missed most of the 2024 season. But the talks concerning Giolito’s place in the pitching rotation started to appear more often after Craig Breslow, the Red Sox official, decided to make several strong moves for their pitching line.

Will the California native pitcher fit in the Red Sox’s rotation next year?

With pitchers Garrett Crochet acquired through trade and Walker Buehler signed, the rotation suddenly looks very good and full. Enter the returns of starting pitchers Tanner Houck, Kutter Crawford, and Brayan Bello, plus rookies Richard Fitts and Quinn Priester, and one can see why there’s so much chatter about how it’ll all work out.

For sure it has raised eyebrows with the question of where would Giolito fit. The 30-year-old, who inked a two-year $38.5 million contract with the Sox last year has never got to pitch even once in the 2024 season. In March, Lucas learned that he would require UCL reconstruction on his pitching arm, which would rule him out for the whole season.

After rehabbing this year in Boston, Giolito has been here in Fort Myers during this offseason at JetBlue Park. He’s not alone, though, as pitcher Garrett Whitlock is also recovering from UCL repair, taking time to regain his fitness while trying to get back to full potential. That’s the plan anyway, but the question remains: where or when does the Red Sox aim to position Lucas Giolito at the start of next season?

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