Chazz Palminteri Criticizes Pitcher Sonny Gray, Backs Giants' J.J. McCarthy

Actor Chazz Palminteri, a lifelong New York sports fan, voiced strong opinions on both baseball and football during a recent appearance on "The Craig Carton Show." He sharply criticized MLB pitcher Sonny Gray, recalling a negative personal encounter and labeling the pitcher as a "failed Yankee" who struggles under pressure in the Bronx. Palminteri also expressed support for the New York Giants' decision to sign quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

Palminteri recounted an interaction with Gray, then with the Yankees, describing the pitcher as dismissive. "Here's something I got to say: Sonny Gray, Sonny, you hear me, Sonny? Sonny Gray, that son of a b

," Palminteri stated, before elaborating on the encounter. He suggested Gray's struggles with the Yankees, citing a high home ERA, were due to his inability to perform in high-pressure situations. "He chokes. He can't pitch. And you know what? We're going to have to see him pitch in the Bronx. He cannot pitch in the Bronx. Never! He was a failed Yankee," Palminteri asserted, contrasting Gray's performance in New York with his success elsewhere.

Shifting to football, Palminteri offered an unexpected endorsement for the Giants' signing of quarterback J.J. McCarthy. Despite McCarthy's polarizing reception, Palminteri argued that early career struggles do not necessarily dictate a player's future potential. He drew parallels to quarterbacks like Sam Darnold and Baker Mayfield, who experienced initial setbacks before finding success. Palminteri praised McCarthy's "strong arm" and characterized him as a winner, citing his championship success in high school and college. He believes McCarthy may have been humbled by his recent experiences and could thrive with the Giants.

During the show, Palminteri also reflected on his formative experience working with Robert De Niro on the film "A Bronx Tale," which he wrote and which De Niro directed. Palminteri described the moment he realized his life was changing as "surreal," recalling his disbelief when De Niro expressed interest in adapting his story. He shared a lighthearted anecdote about initially refusing De Niro's lunch invitation, only to later realize the significance of the moment and his burgeoning Hollywood career.