The Boston Red Sox’s pitching depth may face its first challenge soon.
Pitcher Sonny Gray lasted only 2.2 innings on Monday, leaving the game due to right hamstring tightness after issuing a walk to Detroit Tigers second baseman Gleyber Torres. Chris Cotillo from MassLive.com reported that Gray will have an MRI on Tuesday.
Although Gray is set to undergo an MRI, he may not be facing an extended absence. Cotillo noted that Gray has had hamstring issues in the past and that he does not feel that his current injury is serious or will result in a lengthy stay on the Injured List. Instead, it may be something that Gray has been managing for years and will just need some time to heal.
Boston Red Sox have intriguing option to replace Sonny Gray
Gray has been a solid part of the Red Sox rotation thus far. He had posted a 4.43 ERA and a 1.279 WHiP in his 20.1 innings entering Monday, striking out 11 batters with four walks. His 55.6% ground ball rate has allowed Gray to find success despite a career low 4.9 K/9 rate.
The Red Sox have options to replace Gray in the rotation. Payton Tolle, a consensus top-100 prospect, is off to a strong start in Triple-A, having posted a 3.00 ERA and a 1.067 WHiP over his 15 innings, striking out 19 batters with four walks. He is likely to be the next man up if the Red Sox need a replacement for Gray over the next few weeks.