The Boston Red Sox have strengthened their pitching rotation by trading for three-time All-Star pitcher Sonny Gray from the St. Louis Cardinals. The deal, completed on Tuesday, also involves cash considerations and the exchange of Richard Fitts, a starter from Auburn, Alabama, along with a player to be named later.
Gray, who boasts a robust track record, finished the 2025 season with a 14-8 record and a 4.28 earned-run average (ERA) over 32 starts for the Cardinals. His career highlights include three selections to the MLB All-Star Game during his tenure with the Oakland Athletics, Cincinnati Reds, and Minnesota Twins. St. Louis’ president of baseball operations praised Gray’s skills, stating, “With his power stuff and willingness to attack the strike zone, he has the ability to start games at the highest level for many years.”
In return, the Cardinals will welcome Fitts, who has shown promise despite an injury-plagued season. The right-handed pitcher recorded a 2-4 record with a 5.00 ERA in 10 starts in 2025, striking out 40 batters over 45 innings. Fitts faced challenges early in the season, including a right pectoral strain that sidelined him for over a month. He also contended with elbow neuritis, which limited his appearances after August 25.
Alongside Fitts, the Red Sox have shipped Brandon Clarke, a left-handed pitching prospect. Clarke had a tough start in the minor leagues during his first season, finishing with an 0-3 record and a 4.03 ERA across 14 starts for the Single-A Salem Red Sox and High-A Greenville Drive. He struck out 60 batters in 38 innings but also issued 27 walks.
Gray’s acquisition marks a significant moment for the Red Sox as they aim to bolster their pitching staff heading into the upcoming season. The 2025 season also saw Fitts emerge from a notable high school career, where he was part of the 2017 AHSAA Class 6A championship team in Alabama, despite missing most of that season due to injury. His subsequent collegiate career at Auburn University saw him register a 6-6 record with a 5.54 ERA before being drafted in the sixth round by the New York Yankees in 2021.
The trade indicates a strategic shift for both franchises, with the Red Sox looking to enhance their competitive edge through experienced talent, while the Cardinals invest in potential future stars. As the MLB offseason unfolds, both teams will be keen to see how this trade impacts their performance in the upcoming season.
