Red Sox Scratch Giolito, Yankees Weight Pitcher Choices Wild Card Series

The Boston Red Sox will head into the Wild Card series without starting pitcher Lucas Giolito, who is dealing with an elbow issue and has been removed from the roster. Despite a strong return in 2025 after UCL surgery, Giolito's late-season velocity drop and elbow soreness raise concerns about his availability in future rounds. On the Yankees' side, rookie pitcher Cam Schlitter has earned the trust to potentially start Game 3 if the series goes that far, highlighting his impressive 2.96 ERA in 14 starts. The Yankees face roster decisions, including possibly leaving backup catcher J.C. Escarra and rookie pitcher Will Warren off the Wild Card roster to optimize their lineup and bullpen. Warren, despite leading AL rookies in strikeouts, may not be used as a starter in the short series and could be held back in favor of more experienced relief pitchers. Both teams aim to overcome regular-season struggles against each other as they compete for a spot in the ALDS.