ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - Cardinals marquee signing starting pitcher Sonny Gray started the 2024 season a bit on the wrong foot, with Gray needing to begin the season on the injured list after suffering a hamstring injury in his second Spring Training start.
However, Gray has worked his way back and after throwing a simulated game in Springfield, Missouri, he will finally make his Cardinals regular season debut Tuesday against the Philadelphia Phillies. But there is a caveat: it will only be 65-pitch outing.
John Rooney, the Voice of the Cardinals joined KMOX's Total Information A.M. Monday to discuss Gray's upcoming debut at Busch Stadium.
"I had that sinking feeling when he left the game (against the Washington Nationals) in West Palm Beach that has set him back at this point," said Rooney. " But, he, Oli Marmol, John Mozeliak are convinced the hamstring is set, it's healed, it's ready to go and he's ready to pitch."
With Gray being slotted back into the rotation, it will mean left-handed pitcher Zack Thompson will presumably be slotted into the bullpen. Rooney that with Thompson slotted into the pen, the Cardinals will be able to be ready for Gray's short outing.
"(Thompson) has been filling in for Gray and he's stretched out so the Cardinals have some coverage there," said Rooney. "We're all excited to see Sonny on the mound and be the Sonny Gray that has built a terrific career."