Red Sox veteran Sonny Gray fine-tuning his process in spring training

Manager Alex Cora has let the 36-year-old starter set his own schedule as he prepares for the season

Mar. 10, 2026 at 11:25pm

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Veteran Red Sox starter Sonny Gray is taking a measured approach to his spring training work, focusing on the back fields and minor-league games to hone his craft rather than rushing into Grapefruit League action. Manager Alex Cora has given Gray the freedom to set his own schedule, trusting the 36-year-old's experience and process to get ready for the season.

Why it matters

Gray's deliberate spring training routine highlights the value of veteran leadership and the importance of allowing experienced players to prepare in a way that suits their individual needs. As the Red Sox look to return to the playoffs, Gray's ability to fine-tune his arsenal of pitches will be crucial to the team's success.

The details

In his two Grapefruit League starts so far, Gray has focused on getting his mechanics and release points dialed in, mixing in eight different pitches. He's more concerned with landing his offspeed offerings for strikes and controlling the pace of the game than racking up innings or strikeouts in exhibition play. Cora has been impressed with Gray's intentional approach and believes the veteran will be ready to contribute when the regular season begins.

  • On February 28, Gray made his first Grapefruit League start, allowing two runs in 1 1/3 innings.
  • On March 7, Gray pitched four innings against the Detroit Tigers, allowing two runs on a wind-blown home run but otherwise limiting damage.

The players

Sonny Gray

A 36-year-old veteran starting pitcher entering his 14th MLB season, known for his diverse pitch mix and ability to control the pace of the game.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox, who has given Gray the freedom to prepare for the season on his own terms.

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What they’re saying

“Landing spin, obviously, getting to 0-2, 1-2 early and often, and probably just the fluidity of it. Being able to slow it down when the game needs. You know you're ready when you're able to control the game and pitch to win the game.”

— Sonny Gray, Red Sox starting pitcher (New York Times)

“He's very specific about his work. Every day has a purpose. It's been refreshing having a veteran that acts that way. He's been outstanding for the guys here in camp. … This guy, he's still getting better, which is crazy to say, right? Two hundred strikeouts, that's something that we were looking for, and hopefully we can accomplish that. But I think the competitor, every five days, this guy is going to give you everything. And I'm excited about that.”

— Alex Cora, Red Sox manager (New York Times)

What’s next

With less than three weeks until Opening Day, the Red Sox will need to finalize their bullpen and starting third base roles. Cora indicated that Caleb Durbin is the leading candidate at third base, while several relievers, including Tayron Guerrero, Noah Song, and Tyler Samaniego, are competing for the final spots in the bullpen.

The takeaway

Sonny Gray's measured approach to spring training exemplifies the value of veteran leadership and the importance of allowing experienced players to prepare in a way that suits their individual needs. As the Red Sox look to return to the playoffs, Gray's ability to fine-tune his diverse pitch arsenal will be crucial to the team's success.