Sonny Gray Faces Scrutiny Over Substance on Neck During Playoff Exit

During the Boston Red Sox's first-round playoff elimination, pitcher Sonny Gray became the subject of intense online scrutiny after images surfaced showing a substance on the back of his neck. The viral photos circulated on social media during the team's Game 2 loss to the New York Yankees, fueling speculation among fans and media outlets that Gray may have been using an illegal substance, such as pine tar, to enhance his grip.

Social media platforms buzzed with discussions and video analyses, including one from Jomboy, a media company in which MLB has a stake, that accused Gray of using "sticky stuff." However, the notes accompanying the images suggest that the substance did not appear until the fifth inning of Gray's outing. The pitcher himself has a history of touching his neck, a habit observed throughout the season, which complicates the interpretation of the recent images.

Despite the widespread accusations, umpires did not appear to take notice of anything unusual on Gray's neck during the game. Additionally, Gray did not address the matter in his postgame press conference. The Boston Red Sox manager, Chad Tracy, removed Gray from the game after 70 pitches, a decision that was questioned given the pitcher's performance and the subsequent struggles of the bullpen.

Gray, a veteran pitcher who has hinted at retirement this season, is in the final days of what may be his last major league start. The article raises questions about the practicality of a pitcher attempting to use illicit substances in such a scenario, especially given the increased scrutiny and player inspections in modern baseball. Without official confirmation or comment from Gray or the league, the incident remains a point of speculation as the Red Sox head into the offseason.