Padres roll the dice on Lucas Giolito after strong Double-A showing

Padres roll the dice on Lucas Giolito after strong Double-A showing originally appeared on The Sporting News.
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Lucas Giolito is returning to MLB with the San Diego Padres recalling the veteran after he registered four minor league starts. This Sunday, he will make his 2026 season debut against the Seattle Mariners.

Before Sunday’s game, the Padres announced they were recalling Giolito from Double-A San Antonio. In a corresponding move, they optioned right-hander Alek Jacob to Triple-A El Paso.

We have recalled RHP Lucas Giolito from Double-A San Antonio and optioned RHP Alek Jacob to Triple-A El Paso.

— San Diego Padres (@Padres) May 17, 2026

The former All-Star had a short but encouraging stint with Double-A San Antonio. His latest minor league start saw him pitching six strong frames for just one earned run.

MORE: Padres now know when Lucas Giolito will make season debut

Why Lucas Giolito hasn’t pitched in 2026 already?

After posting solid numbers in 2025. Lucas Giolito opted to become a free-agent. In 145 innings last year for the Boston Red Sox, the right-hander recorded a 3.41 ERA with a 1.29 WHIP and 121:56 K:BB.

However, he was unable to land any offers and it wasn’t until late April when Friars came calling.

As a result, his buildup for the 2026 season was delayed and that’s why the Padres had him in San Antonio for the initial part of the season.

Giolito’s promotion suggest the Padres need immediate help in the rotation. It’s also a good chance for the veteran to show that he still has it in him to deliver at the highest stage.