Veteran right-hander Sonny Gray’s first season with the Cardinals has concluded, as the team has placed him on the 15-day injured list due to flexor tendonitis in his right forearm. Kyle Leahy has been recalled to fill Gray’s spot on the big league roster, and rookie Michael McGreevy is expected to replace Gray in the rotation, according to Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat.
At 34 years old, Gray joined the Cardinals after signing a three-year, $ 75MM deal following a strong 2023 season. He recorded an MLB-best 2.83 FIP with the Twins and finished second in AL Cy Young voting behind Gerrit Cole. Although Gray started the season strong with a 2.60 ERA and 2.84 FIP in his first nine starts, his performance declined starting in June, leading to a 4.92 ERA over a 15-start stretch. He rebounded somewhat, finishing strong with a 2.55 ERA and 1.91 FIP in his final four starts, concluding the season with an overall 3.84 ERA in 166 1/3 innings. His 3.13 FIP ranks seventh in the majors, and he achieved a 30.3% strikeout rate, tying for second best in the big leagues.
Despite his promising underlying metrics, these numbers did not translate into elite performance or wins for the Cardinals, who have been eliminated from playoff contention with a 77-77 record. However, these metrics provide optimism for Gray’s future contributions, as he is expected to be a key part of the starting rotation next year. As noted, an MRI showed no significant issues, suggesting his current injury won’t impact him during Spring Training.
Looking toward 2025, Gray is anticipated to anchor a rotation likely featuring Erick Fedde, Miles Mikolas, and Andre Pallante, although uncertainty remains due to team options for Kyle Gibson and Lance Lynn. Both veterans have performed well but might not return as the team seeks upgrades.
In the short term, Leahy rejoins the roster as a multi-inning relief option after posting a 4.02 ERA earlier this season. Meanwhile, McGreevy, who made his big league debut in July and impressed with seven innings of one-run ball, holds a 0.90 ERA in ten MLB innings and a 4.02 ERA in 27 Triple-A starts this year.
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