Padres face concerns after Lucas Giolito struggles early in season

The San Diego Padres are grappling with early-season challenges as starter Lucas Giolito struggles following his May 17 debut against Seattle. Giolito, who signed a one-year contract after a difficult 2025 season, has posted a 4.76 ERA in 17 minor league innings leading up to his promotion. His fastball and other key pitch velocities have decreased, contributing to high walk rates and low strikeouts. With only four starts in the majors, Giolito has failed to exceed five innings in any outing. Given the health issues affecting the Padres' pitching staff, including multiple injuries to key starters, Giolito's performance is critical as the team seeks stability in its rotation.

• 1:41 AMYahoo Sports — Padres should be concerned about Lucas Giolito