Cardinals sign Sonny Gray to $75M deal, adding him to revamped starting rotation as AL Cy Young runner-up

Revamping their lackluster rotation, the St. Louis Cardinals have made their biggest splash by agreeing to a $75 million, three-year contract with AL Cy Young runner-up Sonny Gray on Monday. This deal includes a $30 million team option for 2027 with a $5 million buyout, potentially making the agreement worth $100 million over four seasons.

John Mozeliak, the Cardinals’ president of baseball operations, had already signed free agent right-handers Kyle Gibson and Lance Lynn to one-year deals. However, Mozeliak was clear that the Cardinals were not at “the finish line” and have managed to secure one of the best pitchers on the free-agent market at the front of their rotation.

The 34-year-old Gray had an impressive 2.79 ERA for Minnesota last season, and despite turning down a qualifying offer from the Twins, the Cardinals are excited to add him to their lineup. St. Louis will lose its second-highest selection but believes it’s a small price to pay for a big boost to their rotation.

With a reputation for reliability and a desire to win, Gray expressed his thrill at joining St. Louis, acknowledging the city’s rich baseball tradition and history that he wants to be part of.

Last season, the Cardinals’ rotation’s 5.08 ERA was the fifth worst in the major leagues while their bullpen’s 4.79 ERA ranked 24th. Therefore, securing experienced pitchers like Lynn and Gibson will help stabilize the team, with Gray expected to lead from the front.

Over his 11-year career, Gray has shown growth and resilience, bouncing back after previous challenges. His decision to join the Cardinals was influenced by the high regard for the organization, its fans, and the strong culture of success and support