### Sonny Gray's Historic Performance: A Masterclass in Pitching On June 28, 2025, St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Sonny Gray delivered a remarkable performance against the Cleveland Guardians, achieving his first complete game in eight years. Gray's one-hitter not only showcased his skill but also marked a significant milestone in his career, as he came within one pitch of a no-hitter. This game was a testament to Gray's resilience and ability to dominate on the mound, especially after a long hiatus from complete games. ### Breakdown of Gray's Dominant Game 1. **Game Overview** - Sonny Gray pitched a complete game, allowing only one hit and striking out 11 batters. - The Cardinals won decisively with a score of 5-0 against the Guardians. - This performance was Gray's first complete game since 2017, highlighting a significant comeback in his career [https://apnews.com/article/cardinals-gray-guardians-0129c404d781e82907dea60bf00ffd38]. 2. **Pitching Efficiency** - Gray completed the game in just 89 pitches, a feat known as a "Maddux," which refers to a complete game shutout thrown with fewer than 100 pitches. - This was the fewest pitches thrown in a Maddux since 2021, and the highest number of strikeouts in such a game since 1988 [https://www.abc27.com/sports/sports-illustrated/a31a0797/sonny-gray-makes-impressive-history-in-shutout-start-vs-guardians]. 3. **Offensive Support** - The Cardinals' offense provided crucial support, with Alec Burleson and Nolan Arenado each driving in two runs. - This offensive output helped break a streak of 24 consecutive scoreless innings for the team, allowing Gray to pitch with a lead [https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2025/jun/28/gray-strikes-out-11-throws-one-hit-gem-vs]. ### Key Statistics from the Game - **Final Score**: Cardinals 5, Guardians 0 - **Innings Pitched**: 9 - **Hits Allowed**: 1 - **Strikeouts**: 11 - **Pitches Thrown**: 89 - **Complete Games in Career**: 7 (first since 2017) [https://www.houstonchronicle.com/sports/article/gray-s-complete-game-11-strikeouts-power-20398336.php]. ### Conclusion: A Milestone for Sonny Gray Sonny Gray's performance on June 28, 2025, was not just a personal triumph but also a significant moment for the St. Louis Cardinals. His ability to throw a one-hitter while striking out 11 batters and completing the game in under 100 pitches underscores his talent and determination. 1. **Historic Achievement**: Gray's first complete game in eight years and a near no-hitter. 2. **Pitching Mastery**: Achieving a "Maddux" with 89 pitches and 11 strikeouts. 3. **Team Impact**: Contributing to a much-needed offensive resurgence for the Cardinals. This game solidifies Gray's position as a leading pitcher in the National League, now tied for the league lead in wins with eight and ranking 10th in strikeouts [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/cardinals_sonny_gray_makes_mlb_history_vs_padres/s1_13132_42386035].