Thu Mar 27 00:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Cardinals’ Gray Shows Reduced Velocity in Final Spring Training Start
**Jupiter, FL** – St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Sonny Gray concluded his spring training with a concerning performance, raising questions about his readiness for the regular season. Gray, who is slated to start on Opening Day, allowed five earned runs and seven hits in just 4 2/3 innings against the Houston Astros on Friday. His fastball velocity, notably down throughout spring training, topped out at 91.7 mph, significantly below his career average of 93 mph.
Gray attributed the reduced velocity to a late start to his throwing program this spring, following an injection received at the end of last season for right flexor tendinitis. While he insists he’s healthy, he acknowledged the concern surrounding his diminished explosiveness. His spring ERA sits at a high 12.56, although the Cardinals reportedly aren’t overly worried about the statistic itself.
After a rough second inning that included a three-run home run, Gray adjusted his approach, relying more heavily on off-speed pitches. This resulted in a more successful performance over the final three innings, suggesting a potential strategy for the regular season. However, he admitted that his fastball isn’t currently at its usual level, stating “the ball is not exploding out of my hand.”
Despite the underwhelming spring training finish, Gray remains confident in his ability to perform at a high level. He expressed optimism that his velocity will return to normal before Opening Day on March 27th against the Minnesota Twins. The Cardinals, too, appear to share this optimism, maintaining that Gray’s health is not a primary concern.
First Piper 