Busch Stadium | St. Louis Cardinals
Busch Stadium | St. Louis Cardinals
Before starting his game on Friday, Cardinals pitcher Sonny Gray exchanged a knowing nod with Guardians manager Stephen Vogt. The two share a history as former teammates and close friends. Gray then delivered an impressive performance, throwing 89 pitches for a complete-game shutout against the Guardians.
Gray was perfect through 4 2/3 innings, allowing only one single in the fifth inning while striking out 11 batters. This dominant display led to a 5-0 victory over Vogt's team. Gray expressed respect for Vogt during the game, reflecting on their shared past.
“It’s kind of crazy how this game does that sometimes," Gray said, recalling a similar complete game he pitched with Vogt as his catcher in 2015.
Gray's efficiency was notable, completing three innings with single-digit pitch counts and finishing the game in just over two hours. Nolan Arenado praised Gray's performance, calling it "a masterclass of pitching."
Despite missing out on a no-hitter, Gray was satisfied with his well-located pitches throughout the game. “I knew the innings were moving along... I made a good pitch there when the guy got the hit and I was fine with that,” he said.
Vogt also acknowledged Gray's skillful command during the game: "He had everything working -- his command, where he was putting every pitch.”
The night ended with memories of another standout performance by Gray from ten years ago in Cleveland.
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