Who should replace Sonny Gray in the Red Sox rotation?
Fort Myers, FL - February 21: Boston Red Sox pitcher Payton Tolle warms up before the game. The Red Sox played the Minnesota Twins at Hammond Stadium on February 21, 2026. (Photo by Barry Chin/The Boston Globe via Getty Images) | Boston Globe via Getty Images Sonny Gray exited Monday’s game early with a hamstring injury.
While the injury isn’t believed to be serious, Gray is spending at least 15 days on the injured list to recover. The Red Sox play 14 games over the next 15 games, so they’ll need someone to fill in. Gray’s turn in the rotation won’t come back around until Friday, and Tyler Samaniego will replace him for now, but they could turn to a traditional starter when the time comes.
So, who should replace him? Payton Tolle has a 4. 80 ERA in three minor league starts.
Tyler Uberstine is also on the 40-man roster and can provide bulk innings. Jake Bennett has been impressive in his short stint in the organization as well. My vote would be for Tolle, but any of the three have a solid case.
Lucas Giolito is a free agent as well — that could be fun, but it’s unlikely. Is there someone I’m forgetting? Let me know in the comments.