Chicago White Sox’ fans got a glimpse of the old Lucas Giolito on Wednesday night. A stellar outing from the righty and a slew of singles were enough for the South Siders to secure a 5-3 win over the Baltimore Orioles.
We’ve seen the version of Giolito that has received Cy Young votes, thrown a no-hitter, and started multiple Opening Days. But the 2022 edition of Giolito has been mostly abysmal. Maybe not on a level that warrants the “worst pitcher in baseball” label, as referenced in the infamous Guaranteed Rate commercial, but it’s been bad enough at times to question his future.
Giolito turned in one of his better outings of the season Wednesday, going 6.1 innings and allowing just one earned run on four hits. He fanned three and issued two free passes. If the White Sox have a divisional comeback in the cards this season, it will be immensely important for Giolito to assert himself alongside Johnny Cueto and Dylan Cease in the rotation.
The big right-hander exited in the seventh inning with runners first and second. On in relief, Kendall Graveman walked Rougned Odor to load the bases with one out. But a spectacular double play started by Yoan Moncada prevented multiple Baltimore runs and helped Graveman escape the jam.
Liam Hendriks, who had not pitched since Saturday, got the ninth inning in a non-save situation. He surrendered a rocket of a two-run homer to Austin Hays, but it wasn’t enough for the Orioles to mount a comeback. Despite the lone long ball, the Sox’ closer fanned two and induced a popout to end the game.
Cheaper by The Dozen
The White Sox offense pounded out a dozen hits and walked six times in the win. However, all 12 hits were singles. Hitting for extra bases and power continues to be an issue that has plagued the South Siders all year. Nevertheless, they scratched across five runs, which was more than enough support for Giolito and the bullpen.
Baltimore native Gavin Sheets had three hits and drove in three runs. The White Sox loaded the bases in the first inning and Sheets delivered a two-run single. As the lefty slugger continues his hot streak, his numbers have steadily climbed.
Looking at the big picture for the White Sox, every game is a must-win at this point to keep the season alive. Lucas Giolito finally delivered when his team needed him the most. The Pale Hose have a chance to take the series and build some momentum heading into their nine-game homestand.
Notes
In his final at-bat of the game, Luis Robert appeared to experience discomfort in the same wrist he previously injured.
Eloy Jimenez did not play after being hit in the elbow in the series opener.
What’s On Tap Next?
Lance Lynn will take the mound for the Chicago White Sox in the rubber match of the three-game series. He will square off against Jordan Lyles of the Baltimore Orioles. NBC Sports Chicago will air the game starting at 6:05 PM CT and Sox On Tap will have the postgame show.
Tune in to the Sox On Tap podcast for postgame reaction and further White Sox commentary all season.
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