Fri Dec 05 00:20:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
The Boston Red Sox have traded for veteran right-handed pitcher Sonny Gray from the St. Louis Cardinals. In exchange, the Cardinals receive left-handed prospect Brandon Clarke and right-hander Richard Fitts. The Red Sox will also receive $20 million from the Cardinals to offset Gray’s salary. Gray, a three-time All-Star who waived his no-trade clause, is expected to bolster Boston’s starting rotation alongside Garrett Crochet. He is coming off a season where he went 14-8 with a 4.28 ERA and struck out 201 batters. The move fulfills Boston’s goal of adding a top starting pitcher behind Crochet. The Cardinals’ acquisition of Clarke and Fitts gives them young arms with potential to contribute in the future, with Bloom praising Fitts’ ability to start at the major league level.
News Article:
Red Sox Land Veteran Ace Sonny Gray in Trade with Cardinals
BOSTON – The Boston Red Sox made a significant move to strengthen their pitching rotation, acquiring veteran right-hander Sonny Gray from the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday. The deal sends left-handed pitching prospect Brandon Clarke and right-hander Richard Fitts to St. Louis. As part of the agreement, the Red Sox will also receive $20 million from the Cardinals to cover Gray’s salary.
Gray, 36, a three-time All-Star, agreed to waive his no-trade clause to join the Red Sox. Last season, he went 14-8 with a 4.28 ERA, proving to be a durable and reliable presence in the Cardinals’ rotation. His addition to Boston’s staff pairs him with ace Garrett Crochet, giving the Red Sox two pitchers who each recorded at least 200 strikeouts in each of the last two seasons.
“We’ve been pretty transparent about our desire to add to the rotation,” Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow told reporters, emphasizing the team’s focus on improving its pitching depth. Breslow stopped short of naming Gray the number 2 starter.
In return for Gray, the Cardinals gain two promising young arms. Clarke, 22, is known for his fastball that can reach 100 mph. Fitts, who turns 26 next month, made 10 starts for Boston last season.
“[Fitts] has already begun his big league career, and 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,” said Cardinals president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom.
The Red Sox’s rotation now boasts Gray and Crochet, supported by right-handers Brayan Bello and Kutter Crawford, along with several left-handed options. The acquisition of Gray signals Boston’s commitment to competing in the near future, adding a proven veteran with a track record of success to their pitching staff.
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