Mets Poised to Sign Former Red Sox Ace Giolito

New York club leads race to acquire $38.5M pitcher ahead of rival Braves

Mar. 30, 2026 at 1:48am

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The New York Mets are emerging as the frontrunners to sign free agent right-handed pitcher Lucas Giolito, who is coming off a strong 2025 season with the Boston Red Sox. Several National League teams have expressed interest in the 27-year-old, but the Mets appear ready to outbid the Atlanta Braves and secure Giolito's services as the 2026 MLB season approaches.

Why it matters

Giolito's potential addition would be a major boost for the Mets' starting rotation as they look to contend in the NL East. The former Red Sox ace had a breakout year in 2025, and his signing would give New York another top-tier arm to complement their existing staff.

The details

Giolito, 27, posted a 15-8 record with a 3.42 ERA and 192 strikeouts for the Red Sox in 2025. The right-hander is now a free agent after Boston declined his $38.5 million option for 2026. Several NL teams, including the Braves, have expressed interest in signing Giolito, but the Mets are reportedly prepared to outbid their division rivals to land the coveted pitcher.

  • Giolito's 2025 season with the Red Sox ended in October.
  • Boston declined Giolito's $38.5 million option for 2026 in November.
  • The 2026 MLB season is set to begin in April.

The players

Lucas Giolito

A 27-year-old right-handed pitcher who is a free agent after a strong 2025 season with the Boston Red Sox.

New York Mets

A National League baseball team that is reportedly the frontrunner to sign Giolito ahead of the 2026 season.

Atlanta Braves

A National League baseball team that has also expressed interest in signing Giolito this offseason.

Boston Red Sox

The MLB team that Giolito played for in 2025 before declining his $38.5 million option for 2026.

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What’s next

The Mets and Braves are expected to continue negotiations with Giolito's representatives in the coming weeks, with the goal of signing the pitcher before the start of spring training in February.

The takeaway

Giolito's potential signing would be a major coup for the Mets as they look to bolster their starting rotation and mount a serious challenge in the NL East. The former Red Sox standout would provide an immediate boost to New York's pitching staff and give them another top-tier arm to compete with the division's elite teams.