New Delhi, April 22 -- The San Diego Padres strengthened their starting rotation on Wednesday by signing veteran right-hander Lucas Giolito to a one-year contract. The deal includes a mutual option for the 2027 season and comes at a crucial time as the team battles multiple injuries in its pitching staff.

San Diego has already dealt with setbacks to key arms Nick Pivetta, Joe Musgrove, and Griffin Canning this season. Lucas Giolito's arrival provides much-needed depth and reliability. The 31-year-old righty will begin his build-up at Single-A Lake Elsinore, focusing on game action to prepare for a major-league return. According to team sources, there is no fixed timeline for his call-up, but the contract requires him to join the 40-man r...