Red Sox should consult the metrics and pass on Sonny Gray reunion after his retirement pivot

BoSox Injection argues that the Boston Red Sox should decline to re-sign veteran pitcher Sonny Gray despite his interest in returning. After expressing frustration following Boston's Wild Card elimination, the 37-year-old announced he will pitch in 2027 and is open to a reunion. Gray posted a career-best 2.72 ERA over 29 starts in 2026, but he is expected to enter free agency by declining a $30 million mutual option.

Writer Brian Burrows contends that underlying metrics suggest Gray's success is not repeatable. Burrows points out that Gray experienced a notable drop in his strikeout rate alongside a 3.47 FIP and 3.85 xERA, indicating heavy assistance from Boston's defense. Consequently, the outlet argues Boston should direct its free-agent budget toward other targets.