Spring Training Delays for Red Sox Ace Spark Debate: Is Sonny Gray’s ‘Veteran Program’ a Smart Strategy or a Risky Gamble?
While most Red Sox pitchers have already taken the mound this spring, one notable absence has fans buzzing: veteran starter Sonny Gray. Acquired in a November trade with the Cardinals, Gray is finally set to make his spring debut on Saturday against the Twins at JetBlue Park. But here’s where it gets interesting—Gray’s delay isn’t due to injury or illness. Instead, it’s a calculated decision by the 36-year-old to ease into game action, a move manager Alex Cora cheekily dubbed the ‘veteran program.’
And this is the part most people miss: Gray’s approach isn’t just about personal preference. It’s a strategy rooted in experience, allowing him to fine-tune his mechanics and build endurance away from the spotlight. Cora assured fans, ‘He’ll get his reps and he’ll be ready,’ but the question remains: is this method optimal for a pitcher expected to anchor Boston’s rotation alongside Garrett Crochet, Ranger Suárez, and Brayan Bello? After all, Gray’s 14-8 record and 4.28 ERA in 32 starts for St. Louis last season suggest he’s still a force to be reckoned with, but spring training is traditionally a time for pitchers to shake off rust and build chemistry with their catchers.
Offensively, the Red Sox are fielding a lineup that blends regulars with rising stars. Outfielders Roman Anthony and Ceddanne Rafaela, who narrowly avoided a serious injury in a collision on Friday, are both starting. Meanwhile, Caleb Durbin takes over at third base, and Marcelo Mayer, who homered in his spring debut, gets the day off. Following Gray on the mound will be Garrett Whitlock and Connelly Early, the latter vying for the No. 5 starter spot.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is Gray’s delayed start a sign of wisdom or a potential weakness? Some argue that older pitchers need more time to ramp up, while others believe spring training is crucial for syncing with teammates. What do you think? Is Gray’s ‘veteran program’ a smart move, or is he missing out on valuable preparation time? Let us know in the comments!
Game Details:
TWINS (2-6) vs. RED SOX (4-3) • JetBlue Park • Lee County, FL
First Pitch: 1:05 p.m. ET
TV: NESN360, WHDH, WWAX, MeTV Portland, WYCI
Radio: WEEI 93.7 FM
Pitching Matchup: RHP Taj Bradley vs. RHP Sonny Gray
Red Sox Lineup:
1. LF Roman Anthony
2. SS Trevor Story
3. DH Jarren Duran
4. 1B Willson Contreras
5. 3B Caleb Durbin
6. CF Ceddanne Rafaela
7. C Carlos Narváez
8. RF Nate Eaton
9. 2B Nick Sogard
Red Sox Pitchers: RHP Sonny Gray, RHP Garrett Whitlock, LHP Connelly Early, LHP T.J. Sikkema, RHP Vinny Nittoli, RHP Noah Song, RHP Jacob Webb.
Related Stories:
- Red Sox Roster Battles: Two Rehabbing Starters Take Big Step, 2B Candidate Likely to Miss Time
- Marcelo Mayer Homers Off Star Closer in Spring Debut
- Roman Anthony, Ceddanne Rafaela Stay in Game After Scary Outfield Collision
- Craig Breslow Addresses Decision to Pass on Pete Alonso
- Red Sox Star Laughs Off Criticism About Offense
About the Author: Chris Cotillo is a seasoned Red Sox reporter for MassLive, covering the team since 2018. Alongside Sean McAdam, he hosts The Fenway Rundown podcast. Previously, Chris covered Major League Baseball for SB Nation.
