Lucas Giolito was discussed as a possible No. 1 overall pick before a sprained ligament in his elbow ended his senior season with Harvard-Westlake High School in California, but concerns over his health and bonus demands caused him to drop to the Nationals at 16th in June’s First-Year Player Draft. However, it appears the elbow issue is now behind him.
Giolito’s father, Rick Giolito, wrote on his Twitter account yesterday that the 18-year-old right-hander will make his first pro start Tuesday with the Nationals’ Gulf Coast League affiliate.
The Nationals ended up exceeding MLB’s slot recommendation by giving Giolito a $2.925 million bonus, but the upside is undeniable if he’s healthy. His fastball was clocked at 100 mph prior to the injury.