Sonny Gray, the veteran pitcher recently traded to the Boston Red Sox, expressed relief and excitement about his new opportunity, moving on from a challenging experience with the New York Yankees. Gray spoke candidly during his first media availability on March 15, 2024, reflecting on his career thus far and his desire for a more supportive environment.
Gray, who has spent most of his 13-year major league career in smaller markets, sees Boston as a place where he can thrive. “I’ve always said I wanted to go to a market that is super-competitive, a big market that wants to win,” he stated. His trade from the St. Louis Cardinals marks a significant shift in his career as he aims to establish himself in one of baseball’s most storied cities.
Leaving New York Behind
Gray’s tenure with the Yankees, which began midway through the 2017 season, was marred by struggles. He tallied a 4.51 ERA over his time in New York, significantly higher than his combined 3.47 ERA with the other teams he played for. His performance at Yankee Stadium in 2018 was particularly challenging, with a 6.98 ERA that ranks among the worst in franchise history for a single season.
Reflecting on his experience in New York, Gray noted, “It just wasn’t a good situation for me, it wasn’t a great set-up for me and my family. I never wanted to go there in the first place.” His no-trade clause, valid through the 2026 season, allowed him to choose Boston as his destination this time, a decision he welcomes.
Gray is not alone in his sentiments about the Yankees. Other players have voiced similar feelings, with closer Aroldis Chapman stating he would “retire right on the spot” if faced with a trade to New York again. This shared sentiment among players highlights a complex dynamic within baseball’s fiercest rivalry.
A New Chapter in Boston
As Gray settles into his role with the Red Sox, he acknowledges the importance of the city and its fans. “I’ve been there, and gone there, and been around the city and the people… that is a situation that I feel comfortable in,” he said. This comfort is crucial for a player looking to rebound after a tough stint in the spotlight.
Gray’s experience in New York taught him valuable lessons, and he appreciates the growth it spurred in his career. “I do feel like the last seven years of my career and my life… has been better. I’ve been a better baseball player, husband, everything, from having that experience,” he reflected.
Now, as he embraces a new chapter with the Red Sox, Gray is eager to showcase his abilities in a city known for its passion for baseball. His excitement is palpable as he acknowledges, “It feels good to me to go to a place now where, you know what, it’s easy to hate the Yankees, right?”
In a sport where performance can be heavily influenced by the environment, Gray’s journey serves as a reminder of the personal challenges players face beyond the statistics. The upcoming season presents a fresh opportunity for Gray, who looks forward to proving himself anew in Boston.
