Atlanta Braves’ Ronald Acuna Jr (Image via Getty) Spring training has put the focus on the Atlanta Braves’ pitching depth. Injuries have forced the team to look outside for help, and Lucas Giolito is one of the few proven starters still available.Some reports have played down Atlanta’s interest, but talks around the league suggest the team is still monitoring the situation. With multiple pitchers either out or recovering, the need for another starter has not gone away.
Why Lucas Giolito Still Makes Sense for Atlanta
Lucas Giolito is coming off a solid 2025 season with the Red Sox. He went 10-4 with a 3.41 ERA in 145 innings. His season started poorly but improved as the year went on.In his first seven starts, he struggled with a high ERA. After making adjustments to his arm angle, his numbers improved. Over his final 18 starts, he had a 2.51 ERA and looked much more consistent.The Braves need stability. Injuries to Spencer Schwellenbach and Hurston Waldrep have weakened the rotation. AJ Smith-Shawver also missed time last year. Chris Sale and Spencer Strider lead the group, but the back end remains uncertain. Giolito can fill that gap.
Possible Contract and Role
Lucas Giolito (Image via Getty)
A short-term deal is the most likely outcome. A one-year contract in the $15–18 million range fits the situation. Incentives based on innings pitched could be included.There is no qualifying offer attached, so Atlanta would not lose a draft pick. That makes Giolito a safer option compared to others on the market.If signed, he would likely slot into the fourth or fifth spot in the rotation. Depth arms such as Dylan Dodd or Joey Wentz could shift to the bullpen without major changes to the roster.
What Each Side Gains
For the Braves, the benefit is clear. Giolito adds innings and reduces pressure on the rest of the staff. If his late-2025 form continues, he could provide more than expected from a back-end role.For Giolito, this is a chance to build on his comeback. A one-year deal with a competitive team gives him the chance to re-enter free agency with stronger value.The move would also impact the division, where teams like the Mets and Phillies are still looking to improve.
Lucas Giolito’s 2025 Performance
PeriodGSIPERAWHIPK%BB%HardHit% First 7 Starts 7 ~40 6.42 N/A N/A N/A N/A Final 18 Starts 18 111.1 2.51 ~1.10 24.4% whiff Low 41.1% Full Season 26 145 3.41 1.29 ~21% Low 41.1%Giolito is 31, stands 6’6”, and has the build to handle a full workload. His late-season adjustment helped improve both command and results.
Atlanta Braves Rotation Outlook
PitcherAge2025 IPERAStatus Chris Sale 36 Limited Elite Healthy Spencer Strider 27 Partial Rebounding Ready Reynaldo López 32 1 GS N/A Shoulder recovery Bryce Elder 26 126+ 5.30 Bulk innings Grant Holmes 29 Limited N/A UCL partial tear
Pros and Cons
The main advantage is durability. Giolito showed he can pitch a full season after surgery. He can cover innings and support the rotation.There are risks. His injury history is recent, and his early 2025 form was poor. The team is also close to the luxury tax, which limits flexibility.
Final Outlook on this mock trade
The fit is straightforward. The Braves need a reliable starter, and Giolito is available on a short-term deal. If both sides agree, it gives Atlanta stability without a long-term commitment.