MLB
Yankees Deal Pitcher Sonny Gray to the Cincinnati Reds
Earlier today, the Reds acquired starter Sonny Gray from the Yankees along with LHP Reiver Sanmartin. In exchange, the Yankees will receive INF Shed Long and a 2019 Competitive Balance Round A Draft Pick. Gray was 11-9 with a 4.90 ERA during 2018 with the Yankees. He also had 123 strikeouts and a WHIP of 1.50 in 130 and 1/3 innings. Gray has struggled with the Yankees since being sent to the Bronx from Oakland back in 2017. With the Yankees, Gray was 15-16 with a 4.51 ERA with 182 strikeouts. This was a significant downfall since with Oakland, Gray was 44-36 with a 3.42 ERA with 607 strikeouts.
Even though he spent more time in Oakland, Gray clearly lost something when he went to the Yankees. One of the best pitchers in baseball fell flat on his face. He’ll reconnect with his college pitching coach, Derek Johnson when he arrives in Cincinnati and will look to regain the previous dominance he had with Oakland.
Shortly after the Reds traded for Sonny Gray, the Reds signed him to an extension. Gray agreed to an extension for three-years worth $30.5 million with a $12 million club-option for 2023.
Gray’s Impact On The Reds In 2019
The Reds have had a busy winter. During the offseason, the Reds have acquired Matt Kemp, Yasiel Puig, Alex Wood, Tanner Roark, Kyle Farmer, and now Sonny Gray. All of these players will play a MAJOR impact on a rebuilding Reds team. Wood, Roark, and Gray will most likely serve at the top of the Reds rotation while Kemp, Puig, and Farmer will automatically add to the Reds already dangerous offense. Assuming the Reds can get some help in the bullpen (to go along with Rasiel Iglesias), do not be surprised to see them make a run in 2019 and still competing in September.
Photo Credit to Keith Allison via Flickr
