UPDATE: In a thrilling comeback, Texas right-hander Jon Gray secured a victory in his return from injury, throwing two scoreless innings in relief during the Rangers’ 2-1 win over the Oakland Athletics on Wednesday night in Arlington, Texas. Gray was activated from the injured list earlier today, marking his first appearance since suffering a fractured right forearm from a line drive during a spring training game on March 14, 2023.
Entering a tense situation with runners on the corners and two outs in the sixth inning, Gray replaced starter Patrick Corbin, who was signed just days after Gray’s injury. Facing pinch-hitter Tyler Soderstrom, Gray delivered a critical performance, with Michael Helman making a spectacular backhand catch just steps from the fence to preserve the lead. “He’s really the hero,” Gray praised Helman, who was recalled from Triple-A Round Rock on Monday.
Gray showcased his skills by retiring his first six batters before allowing a two-out single to Brent Rooker, his final batter of the night. “It was just really intense,” Gray reflected. “The first couple of pitches weren’t that great.”
Rangers manager Bruce Bochy expressed his relief, stating, “I was hoping to find a little softer landing for him.” This victory is a significant boost for Gray, who is in the final season of a $56 million contract signed in 2021, as he aims to improve upon his 5-6 record and 4.47 ERA from an injury-plagued 2024 season.
In a related move, the Rangers designated reliever Luke Jackson for assignment to clear space on both the 26-man and 40-man rosters. Jackson, who had a 4.11 ERA in 39 appearances this season, had struggled with only one save since April 25.
Gray, previously selected third overall in the 2013 amateur draft, spent the first seven seasons of his major league career with the Colorado Rockies before joining the Rangers, who also made headlines by signing World Series MVP shortstop Corey Seager for $325 million and second baseman Marcus Semien for $175 million in 2021.
As the Rangers prepare for the finale of a three-game series against the Athletics, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Gray can maintain his momentum and contribute to the team’s success moving forward. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
