St. Louis Cardinals Ace Sonny Gray Injured Before Opener

St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Sonny Gray, right, talks in the dugout with manager Oliver Marmol after being removed during the second inning of a spring training baseball game against the Washi

St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Sonny Gray is facing uncertainty regarding his availability for the team's opening day start due to a mild right hamstring strain sustained during a recent spring training outing. The three-time All-Star right-hander exited his start against the Washington Nationals after throwing just 20 pitches. Initially reported as tightness, an MRI later confirmed the presence of a strain.

The Cardinals' president of baseball operations, John Mozeliak, provided an update on Gray's condition, stating that the MRI results indicated a mild strain. However, Mozeliak refrained from setting a specific timeline for Gray's return, emphasizing the need to monitor his progress over the coming days. Despite the setback, Mozeliak expressed optimism, hoping that the injury would not have a prolonged impact on Gray's availability.

Cardinals president John Mozeliak confirmed a mild strain but no specific return timeline.

Sonny Gray injured his hamstring during spring training, uncertain for opening day.

Gray's recent contract with the Cardinals adds to the significance of his role.

Gray, who signed a lucrative three-year contract with the Cardinals in November, was expected to play a pivotal role in the team's revamped rotation alongside new addition Kyle Gibson and returning starter Lance Lynn. The seasoned pitcher is coming off an impressive season with the Minnesota Twins, where he posted an 8-8 record and a stellar 2.79 ERA, earning him a runner-up finish in the AL Cy Young voting.

The injury occurred during Gray's second spring training appearance, following a strong debut outing. Despite his early exit, Gray had been effective on the mound before signaling discomfort to his team. Notably, Gray has a history of hamstring issues, having dealt with similar injuries during his tenure with the Twins in 2022.

As the Cardinals assess Gray's situation, they have yet to determine a replacement for his potential opening day start against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 28. While Mozeliak hinted at Miles Mikolas as a likely candidate, the team is also considering young pitchers Matthew Liberatore and Zach Thompson as alternatives if Gray is sidelined.

Reflecting on the situation, Mozeliak acknowledged the challenges posed by Gray's injury but remained hopeful for a positive outcome. The Cardinals will continue to monitor Gray's progress closely in the days ahead to make informed decisions regarding their pitching rotation for the upcoming season.

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