Red Sox Pitcher Teases Reward If Marcelo Mayer Hits This Benchmark

Marcelo Mayer hit two home runs in the Red Sox’s 4-3 win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday, making him one step closer to a surprise.

Lucas Giolito said if the Red Sox rookie can hit 20 home runs this season, he’ll get him a gift.

“If he’s able to put up 20 this year, I mean we’re already in June so he’s got some work to do, but if he puts up 20 I’ll have a nice gift for him at the end of the year,” the veteran pitcher said during NESN’s coverage.

After Mayer hit his first home run of the day in the second inning, he grabbed the Wally helmet, also known as the Red Sox home run celebration helmet. As he walked down the dugout to give high fives to his teammates, Giolito kissed the mask.

When Giolito was battling back from a left hamstring issue, he rehabbed with the Triple-A Worcester Red Sox. During that time, he got to know Mayer.

“Marcelo and I developed a little bit of a bond when I was going through my rehab outings, so I give him a couple kisses on the cheek for the home run,” Giolito said.