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Red Sox pitcher Sonny Gray delivered one of his sharpest performances of the season Wednesday night, guiding Boston to a 4-0 victory over the Chicago White Sox. The win extended Boston’s winning streak to seven games and gave the club its 30th victory in its past 35 contests.
Gray allowed only three hits and struck out eight across six scoreless innings. The 36-year-old right-hander generated 17 swing-and-misses, repeatedly fooling Chicago hitters with his fastball, breaking pitches and precise command.
Sonny Gray powers a surging Red Sox rotation
The performance was especially important for Gray, who had surrendered nine runs over his previous two starts. Against Chicago, however, he looked closer to the veteran ace Boston expected when it acquired him from the St. Louis Cardinals early in the offseason.
“He was awesome, very locked in,” interim manager Chad Tracy said after the game. “Executed his pitches, had his spin. Pretty much had spin whenever he wanted to. Looked like vintage Sonny.”
Gray improved to 14-2 on the season and now shares the major league lead in victories with Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Cristopher Sánchez, who is also 14-4. The total matches Gray’s career high, previously reached with the Oakland Athletics in 2014 and 2016.
His overall numbers remain impressive. Gray owns a 2.78 ERA through 21 starts and has been one of the most dependable arms in Boston’s rotation. He also posted a 14-8 record in 32 starts for St. Louis last season.
A powerful response after recent setbacks
Gray’s recent results had briefly raised questions about his consistency. In his previous outing, he surrendered four runs over seven innings in a victory against the Athletics. Before that, he allowed a season-high 10 hits and five runs against the Toronto Blue Jays.
That loss was Gray’s first defeat in 16 starts since early May, following his return from a 15-day injured-list stint caused by a right hamstring strain. Rather than allowing the rough stretch to affect his confidence, Gray focused on the small details that have shaped his long career.
“Finding an edge, spinning the ball, that’s who I am,” Gray said. “There’s a lot of little things that add up; I don’t think it’s one thing.”
That approach was evident from the opening innings. Gray needed just seven pitches to complete a 1-2-3 second inning, then struck out the side in the fourth. Each of his eight strikeouts ended with a third strike, underlining the quality of his command and pitch movement.
Red Sox winning streak raises October expectations
Boston’s victory was more than another regular-season win. The club has transformed its season with a remarkable run, winning 30 of its last 35 games and building momentum at a critical point in the schedule.
The Red Sox have also strengthened their roster recently, adding catcher Adley Rutschman before the trade deadline. With Gray anchoring the rotation and Boston’s offense continuing to produce, the team is increasingly viewed as a serious postseason contender.
- Sonny Gray improved to 14-2.
- He recorded eight strikeouts and 17 swing-and-misses.
- Boston defeated Chicago 4-0.
- The Red Sox have won seven consecutive games.
- Gray’s 2.78 ERA ranks among the American League’s strongest marks.
The club’s recent surge has changed the tone around Boston. Earlier-season concerns about pitching depth and consistency have given way to optimism, particularly as experienced players begin delivering in high-pressure situations.
For Gray, Wednesday’s outing offered a timely reminder of why Boston wanted his veteran presence. His ability to adjust after difficult starts could prove vital if the Red Sox reach October, when dependable starting pitching often determines how far a team advances.
There is still plenty of baseball remaining, but the warning signs for Boston’s rivals are becoming difficult to ignore. The Red Sox are playing confident baseball, Gray is back in dominant form, and the club’s recent run has placed it firmly in the postseason conversation.
Frequently asked questions
How many wins does Sonny Gray have in 2026?
Gray improved to 14-2 after Boston’s 4-0 win over the Chicago White Sox on Aug. 5, 2026.
How did Sonny Gray perform against Chicago?
Gray allowed three hits, struck out eight batters and pitched six scoreless innings.
What is Sonny Gray’s ERA this season?
Gray has a 2.78 ERA through 21 starts.
How many games in a row have the Red Sox won?
Boston has won seven consecutive games and 30 of its past 35 contests.
Why is this win important for Boston?
The victory strengthened the Red Sox’s postseason momentum and showcased Gray’s ability to rebound from two difficult starts.
