In a recent announcement, the Red Sox revealed that pitcher Lucas Giolito has successfully undergone an internal brace procedure on his partially torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his pitching elbow. This procedure, seen as a positive outcome compared to Tommy John surgery, was performed by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Dugas at the Andrews Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center in Birmingham, Alabama.

Initially, there were concerns that Giolito might require Tommy John surgery, which would have sidelined him for an extended period. However, once the procedure began, it became evident that the internal bracing method was the most suitable course of action.

Although the team has not provided a specific timetable for Giolito's return to game action, it is highly unlikely that he will pitch in the 2024 season. Most pitchers with severe elbow injuries lean towards undergoing Tommy John surgery, but a select few, including Tampa Bay Rays' Drew Rasmussen, have opted for the internal brace procedure. Rasmussen is expected to be out for more than a year.

The recovery time for pitchers who undergo the internal bracing procedure tends to be longer than that of position players. For instance, Red Sox shortstop Trevor Story returned to the field after a seven-month recovery period. Given the strain that pitching puts on the arm, Giolito may require even more time for a full recovery.

Red Sox manager Alex Cora expressed optimism about the outcome of Giolito's procedure, characterizing it as the best-case scenario under the circumstances. However, he did not commit to a specific timeline for the pitcher's return. Cora emphasized the importance of a careful rehabilitation process while hoping for a sooner rather than later comeback.

Despite the setback, Giolito's future with the Red Sox remains secure. He will still earn his guaranteed $18 million salary in 2024. Insurance coverage is not in place for his contract, and Giolito will likely exercise his option for the second year, earning $19 million instead of exploring free agency.

The contractual question that arises now revolves around a conditional option for the 2026 season. If Giolito throws fewer than 140 innings in 2025, the Red Sox will have a club option for 2026. However, if he meets that mark, the option becomes a mutual one, which is highly unlikely to be exercised.

With Giolito ruled out for the year, the Red Sox will rely on younger pitchers to fill the void in their starting rotation. Brayan Bello, Nick Pivetta, and Kutter Crawford have secured their spots, while Tanner Houck, Garrett Whitlock, Josh Winckowski, and Cooper Criswell will vie for the remaining openings.

It remains to be seen how Giolito's rehabilitation progresses, but the Red Sox are hopeful that he will make a full recovery and contribute to the team's success in the future.