Yankees Sonny Gray believes he is one of the best pitchers

Following his impressive performance against the O’s, Yankees right-hander Sonny Gray called himself one of the best starting pitchers in the league. His 5.05 ERA and 1.50 WHIP shout otherwise but it’s okay for him to feel confident.

On Saturday, Yankees pitcher Sonny Gray was granted the opportunity to start the night game of a doubleheader against the Baltimore Orioles. His efforts were remarkable as he shutout the O’s during his 6 1/3 innings of action. He allowed only three hits, one walk, and struck out seven batters.

Gray had been demoted to the bullpen earlier in the month because of inconsistent performances all year long. His last start was on August 1, against the last-place Orioles in front of an agitated Yankee home crowd. He lasted only 2 2/3 innings and surrendered seven runs.

However, on Saturday, Sonny Gray was not the Gloomy Gray we’ve seen for most of the season — showing fans and analysts the type of pitcher he could be when his mechanics and command are in sync.

Even though the 28-year-old right-handed pitcher hasn’t had his best season, he remains confident in his abilities. During his post-game interview, he was asked his thoughts about his impressive outing, and he had this to say:

More from Yankees News

"Sonny Gray: “If I can go out and throw the ball like that, I think I can get anybody out. I know I can get anybody out. I mean, I’m one of the best starting pitchers in this league and I truly believe that.”— Bryan Hoch (@BryanHoch) August 26, 2018"

Now, I’m not one to rain on someone’s parade. If Sonny “Pickles” Gray can pitch like this against every team, I’d be ecstatic, but I know that’s not going to happen. I will, however, excuse myself from being a Sonny basher if he continues heating up as we head into September.

The last-place O’s were a perfect match for the struggling Gray, so kudos to Aaron Boone for giving him the start. The demotion of Gray earlier in the month was also a good move by Boone because we can see the former All-Star pitcher’s performance improving.

Since the demotion, Gray has pitched 15.1 innings, recorded 14 strikeouts, and has allowed 15 hits, six walks, while surrendering only three runs. His 1.76 ERA during that time frame has been a blessing, and his 1.37 WHIP shows he’s slightly improving his ability to limit baserunners.

NorthJersey.com reported that Gray said he learned a lot about pitching and himself since his time in the bullpen. While it is not definite that he will remain in the ‘pen, he admitted to reporters on Saturday he has no issue with continuing to be a spot starter for now.

"“I said the moment I went to the bullpen I’m still a part of this team and I’m going to do whatever they ask,” Gray said. “I’ll go back to the bullpen and I’ll do whatever I can down there, or I’ll start and do whatever I can in the rotation.”"

Having team players during September will be key. There is no time for egos to get in the way of the Yankees ultimate goal of winning a championship. As of now, the Yanks are six games behind the AL East-leading Boston Red Sox, and +4.5 games ahead of the Oakland Athletics for the first Wild Card.

Following his impressive performance against the O’s, Yankees right-hander Sonny Gray called himself one of the best starting pitchers in the league. His 5.05 ERA and 1.50 WHIP shout otherwise but it’s okay for him to feel confident.

Schedule