A’s Prospect Sonny Gray Notches First Pro Win
By Aaron Somers
Last night, Oakland Athletics prospect Sonny Gray earned his first professional win for the Double-A Midland Rockhounds. Facing just one over the minimum, Gray threw 37 of his 60 pitches for strikes. He allowed one hit, walked one and fanned three over five shutout innings.
Gray has now went 16 1/3 innings without allowing a run, lowering his season ERA to just 0.49. The 21 year-old has also issued just 3 free passes while striking out nearly a batter per inning over his 18 1/3 innings of professional ball.
Last season Gray was 11-3 with a 2.01 ERA in 16 starts for Vanderbilt University, striking out 115 and walking just 39 in 107 2/3 innings. Drafted 18th overall by Oakland in June, Gray quickly signed, receiving a $1.54 million signing bonus.
While many argue that the 10-25 innings a pitcher can log if they quickly sign are irrelevant, I strongly disagree. Criticized for his size–5’11” and 195 lbs–and violent delivery, Gray is doing his part to silence his critics.
Keep an eye on Sonny Gray as he continues to earn his stripes down on the farm.
For more on the Oakland Athletics, check out SwinginAs.com
Like what you see here and want to stay informed on the happenings at S2S? Make sure to follow me on twitter @JAYRC_MCB! You can also keep up to date with all things S2S by liking our Facebook page.