The Boston Red Sox were dealt a blow before opening their best-of-three American League wild-card series, announcing on Monday that right-hander Lucas Giolito has an elbow issue that will keep him out against the New York Yankees.

Expected to follow ace Garrett Crochet and Brayan Bello if the series extends to Game 3, Giolito will see a specialist to have his elbow examined, Boston manager Alex Cora told reporters on Monday. The Red Sox play the Yankees in Game 1 on Tuesday in New York.

The 31-year-old Giolito returned this season after missing the 2024 campaign following right UCL surgery that March. He signed a two-year, $38.5 million deal with Boston before the 2024 season. The nine-year veteran had a $14 million club option that became a $19 mutual option once he eclipsed the 140-inn

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