Tigers Target Shunned Red Sox Starter After Boston's Pitching Moves

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Detroit Tigers fans have endured a frustrating offseason, marked by unfulfilled promises from the front office after the team's ALDS exit. Despite reacquiring Gleyber Torres and Kyle Finnegan, the Tigers have only signed two pitchers, which has left many fans questioning the direction of the organization. The lack of significant additions has tested the patience of loyal supporters, but there is still time for the Tigers to make impactful moves before spring training begins.

One player who will have to compete for a rotation spot in the upcoming season is Anderson. This competition opens the door for the Tigers to sign a more established starting pitcher, especially given the slow-moving nature of the starter market this offseason. While the Tigers may not be willing to invest heavily in top-tier free agents like Ranger Suarez or Framber Valdez, there are several B/C-tier pitchers who could provide more value than Anderson.

A potential target for the Tigers could be Lucas Giolito, a former Red Sox starter who once shared a high school rotation with Jack Flaherty and Max Fried. Giolito recently declined his mutual option with the Red Sox and is now available without any restrictions, as Boston did not offer him a qualifying deal. This makes him an attractive option for the Tigers, who could potentially acquire him at a discount.

Giolito has expressed openness to rejoining the Red Sox, but he acknowledges that the team's recent additions of Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo have made that possibility increasingly unlikely. He has been working on refining his pitch repertoire, reintroducing a sinker and retooling his changeup to improve his appeal to other teams.

In 2025, Giolito had his best season since his 2021 campaign with the White Sox, earning Cy Young votes. However, he missed the entire 2024 season due to a non-Tommy John elbow procedure and was sidelined for about a month in 2025 because of a hamstring strain. Despite these setbacks, he remained healthy for the rest of the year, pitching 145 innings with a 3.41 ERA.

Giolito left $19 million in guaranteed money for 2026 on the table, but if the Tigers could secure him with a contract similar to what they gave Jack Flaherty (two years, $35 million with escalators), it could be a smart move. Given his bounce-back success in Boston, Giolito could serve as a worthwhile project and potentially fill a No. 2 role behind Tarik Skubal.

The Tigers have the opportunity to capitalize on Giolito's availability and potential, especially if they can negotiate a deal that aligns with their financial strategy. With the right addition, the team could strengthen its rotation and regain the confidence of its fanbase.