4 Reasons Why Lucas Giolito to the Dodgers Just Makes Sense
The Dodgers are in desperate need of pitching help this winter, notably in their starting rotation. LA is expected to be aggressive in doing so, and they have been linked with the majority of the top-tier targets. But in order for the Dodgers to maximize their roster, they also have to look into more value signings. LA loves reclamation projects, and the name that has generated the most stream so far this winter is pitcher Lucas Giolito.
Giolito has been linked with the Dodgers for a long time now, and they almost acquired him at the trade deadline. But the best time for LA to bring him into the team is this winter, and they believe that they can fix his issues.
Here are some reasons why Giolito makes sense for the Dodgers this offseason:
1. Strong First Half of 2023
Before he was traded to the Los Angeles Angels, Giolito had himself a strong year with the Chicago White Sox. He posted an ERA of 3.79 in 21 games, but once he was dealt, it was game over for him.
His ERA ballooned to 6.89 over six starts with the Los Angeles Angels before he was put on waivers. He was claimed by the Cleveland Guardians and didn’t fare much better there, putting up an ERA of 7.04 over six starts
Some teams may be hesitant because of his second-half struggles, but all of the movement seemed to cause issues. Getting him in to work with the Dodgers pitching staff could work wonders for the right-hander.
2. Hometown Kid
He is a hometown kid, and he would love to revitalize his career with the Dodgers. Giolito attended Harvard Westlake and played at Encino Little League back in the day. He has family out here, and they would get to see him pitch every time he took the mound at Dodger Stadium.
3. Reclamation Project
Giolito could easily sign a one-year, prove-it type deal with the Dodgers, and then re-enter free agency again next offseason after a productive year. While some fans may have PTSD from Noah Syndergaard this past season, Giolito is a much better pitcher than Syndergaard.
Syndergaard relied heavily on his velocity, so once that went out, he was done for. Giolito mixes things up on the mound and can get outs in different ways.
4. Rotation Depth
He would likely slot in toward the back end of the Dodgers rotation, giving them a very solid No. 4 starter. They could be set up very well in the rotation, and it could be a strength this season instead of a weakness like it was this past year.
Giolito to the Dodgers feels like it could realistically come together this offseason and it would be a mutually beneficial pairing. LA has plenty of options to work from this winter, but landing Giolito could be a low-risk, potentially high-reward move for the team.
Photo Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Have you subscribed to our YouTube Channel yet? Subscribe and hit that notification bell to stay up to date on all the latest Dodgers news, rumors, interviews, live streams, and more!
