After a huge bounce back season, Cincinnati Reds pitcher Sonny Gray’s 2019 ends a few days early as he elects surgery.
Cincinnati Reds All-Star starting pitcher Sonny Gray ended his season five games early when he went under arthroscopic right elbow surgery on Wednesday. He is expected to be fully recovered next year for Spring training.
Gray dealt with elbow issues the entire season. The operation removed loose bodies from his pitching elbow.
The two-time All-Star should have no negative effects from the procedure. His offseason schedule is unaffected, according to the Reds.
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The 29-year-old had a terrific first year in Cincinnati. He went 11-8 with a 2.87 ERA and 305 strikeouts through 31 starts. Entering Wednesday, he was fifth in the National League in ERA and 11thin strikeouts. 2019 was his best season since 2015 campaign with the Oakland A’s.
Gray was more effective in 2019 because he finally became more of a strikeout pitcher. He surpassed the 200-strikeout milestone for the first time in his career.
The Reds acquired Gray in January from the New York Yankees. After the trade, the Reds extended Gray with a three-year, $30.5 million contract. They look utilize Gray’s contract and build a strong rotation around him for the next few season.
Cincinnati took a step towards doing this in 2019 by trading for Trevor Bauer. In 2020, they have Bauer, Gray, and All-Star Luis Castillo as their three top starts. They look to become more dangerous by having an impressive rotation. Adding another starter in the offseason could be likely as well. Their pitching will make a big difference in 2020.
After a revitalized 2019 campaign and a completely clean pitching elbow, Gray looks to keep improving during the 2020 season. He is a crucial part of the Cincinnati Reds franchise for the next couple season, and they hope that he mimics his 2019 dominance.