*Editor’s note: As of 11/25/25, Sonny Gray has been traded to the Boston Red Sox.
At 36 years old, Sonny Gray is still chasing a World Series ring.
One of the better pitchers in Major League Baseball since his debut in 2013, Gray has become well traveled in his career. Spending time with five different organizations, he has been able to produce at nearly every stop.
The veteran right-hander currently resides with the St. Louis Cardinals, a club that is not expected to compete in 2026. The Cardinals are looking to offload high-paid veterans such as Nolan Arenado this offseason as they build for the future.
Despite having a full no-trade clause, Gray could be a potential trade candidate for the Cardinals ahead of the 2026 season. While they would have to retain salary, St. Louis could benefit from moving the longtime starter to a contending team.
There is one team that I believe could be interested in a St. Louis swap.
Welcome to Baltimore
There is no secret that the Baltimore Orioles need starting pitching help. Anchored by Trevor Rogers, Baltimore needs to add more pitching if they want to seriously contend for the American League East crown in 2026.
After trading Grayson Rodriguez to the Los Angeles Angels, the club has taken a step in the wrong direction regarding their depth. Rodriguez was once a promising young arm that the O’s decided they were ready to move on from.
A deal for Sonny Gray would benefit all parties involved. Baltimore could get a veteran arm who has started 60 games over the past two seasons in St. Louis. He also finished 2025 with 201 strikeouts, tied for 11th in baseball. Gray is dependable and could even help mentor some of the Orioles’ younger pitchers.
Gray has a mutual option on his contract for 2027 as well. If things work out in year one with the Orioles, both sides might be willing to extend their partnership another season.
Based on the amount of salary the club is willing to take on will determine the return package in a trade. If, for instance, Baltimore took on the entirety of Gray’s contract, they would virtually give up nothing in return. If they force the Cardinals to retain salary, that is where you start to negotiate.
Proposed trade:
Baltimore Orioles receive Sonny Gray (Cardinals retain $15 million).
St. Louis Cardinals receive Max Wagner and Wilfri De La Cruz
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