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The San Francisco Giants have released veteran left-handed pitcher Joey Lucchesi, despite him posting a 3.00 ERA and 2/0 K/BB ratio in three spring training appearances. The Giants signed fellow left-hander Ryan Borucki to a major league deal, leading to Lucchesi’s departure. Lucchesi is now looking to sign with another team and continue his MLB career.
Why it matters
The Giants are shaking up their bullpen ahead of new manager Tony Vitello’s debut season. Lucchesi’s release comes as a surprise given his solid spring performance, highlighting the competitive nature of roster decisions in Major League Baseball.
The details
Lucchesi made the full-time transition to the bullpen in 2025, his first and only season with the Giants. Over a career-high 38 appearances, he posted a 3.76 ERA and 31/12 K/BB ratio. With starting experience under his belt, Lucchesi was expected to provide long relief for the Giants, but the team ultimately decided to go in a different direction.
Lucchesi made three appearances in spring training 2026.The Giants released Lucchesi on March 22, 2026.
The players
Joey Lucchesi
A veteran left-handed pitcher who has spent eight seasons in the major leagues, including one year with the Giants in 2025.
Tony Vitello
The new manager of the San Francisco Giants, set to make his debut in the 2026 season.
Ryan Borucki
A left-handed pitcher who the Giants signed to a major league deal, leading to Lucchesi’s release.
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What they’re saying
“Ultimately, all the left-hander wants is a shot. And he wants to prove he can be a crucial arm out of the bullpen.”
— Joey Lucchesi
What’s next
Lucchesi will look to sign with another MLB team and continue his career as a long reliever.
The takeaway
The Giants’ decision to release Lucchesi despite his solid spring performance highlights the competitive nature of roster decisions in Major League Baseball, as teams constantly evaluate their options to build the best possible bullpen.