The MLB trade deadline is approaching fast, and the rumor mill is heating up around a few big-name arms. Tarik Skubal is the obvious headliner, but there’s another pitcher drawing serious interest. Sonny Gray is putting together a hell of a season, and the Boston Red Sox have a decision to make.
Gray is 9-1 with a 2.69 ERA. He’s been exactly what Boston hoped for when they traded for him from the St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals even tossed in $20 million to cover part of the $41 million left on his contract. That deal looks even better now.
But here’s the thing. The Red Sox are trying to make a playoff push. They won five straight before losing Tuesday night. Are they legit contenders? Not really. They’re hanging around the edges of a weak wild-card race, but nobody in baseball is treating them like a serious threat.
Bob Nightengale of USA Today says Gray is the second-best pitcher likely to be moved behind Skubal. And if Boston doesn’t make a run, Gray will almost certainly be dealt. The problem with moving him isn’t just the money. Gray has a full no-trade clause. That means he picks his destination.
According to Nightengale, Gray’s preferred landing spots include the Atlanta Braves and maybe even the Chicago White Sox. That’s an interesting pair. The Braves are in a tight division race and could use another frontline starter. The White Sox are rebuilding, which makes you wonder why Gray would want to go there. But he’s from Tennessee and has family in the South, so geography might play a role.
The financial side is tricky too. Gray is owed about $11 million in remaining salary this season. Plus his mutual option has a $10 million buyout. Nightengale predicts Boston will pick up that buyout and then trade Gray wherever he wants to go. The Braves seem like the most logical fit if they’re willing to meet Gray’s asking price in trade assets.
Atlanta has been quiet so far this deadline. They need pitching help, especially with Max Fried dealing with injury issues. Adding Gray would give them a reliable arm for the stretch run and maybe beyond. But it’s up to Gray. He controls where he goes, not just the Red Sox.
For now, Boston has to decide if they’re sellers or buyers. If they keep sliding, Gray will be gone. If they somehow make a run, they might hold him. But the smart money says he’ll be wearing a different uniform in August.
Leave a Comment