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Lucas Giolito 2020 Outlook: Legit Tools Will Keep Him a High-End Starter
5 years agoChicago White Sox starting pitcher Lucas Giolito was a true breakout performer in 2019. The former top prospect lived up to the billing in his second full season as a starter for the Sox. On the heels of a disastrous 2018 where he posted a 6.23 ERA, 1.48 WHIP and was among the worst in terms of walks and runs allowed, he turned things around in a huge way. Giolito posted a 59% quality start rate, 3.41 ERA, and 1.06 WHIP that was 11th-best among qualified starters. Best of all for fantasy owners, he struck out 228 batters in 176 innings, ranking in the 90th percentile in K%. Given Giolito's pedigree, young age of 25, and dominant season, it's easy to place him as a top-20 SP. There is the concern that he could face some negative regression but it shouldn't be used as a reason to fade him as long as you don't overpay on draft day expecting another step forward. The offensive additions made during the offseason could help Giolito win more games, so between victories and strikeouts, his floor should remain fairly high.
