St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Sonny Gray (54) delivers a pitch in the ninth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field. David Richard-Imagn Images

Cardinals' Sonny Gray makes MLB history vs. Padres

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Jun 28, 2025 9:02 AM ET

Friday night around MLB saw several incredible pitching performances, including the Reds' Nick Martinez taking a no-hitter into the ninth inning against the San Diego Padres.

None were as dominant, though, as the outing turned in by the Cardinals' Sonny Gray in their 5-0 win over the Cleveland Guardians.

Gray ended with a final stat line of nine innings, one hit, zero runs and 11 strikeouts on just 89 pitches. According to Jake Feely of Talkin' Baseball, Gray made history with his start Friday night.

Sonny Gray tonight:

9.0IP
1H
0ER
0BB
11K
89 Pitches

He is the only pitcher in MLB HISTORY to throw 9.0IP / 1 or less hits / 0ER / 0BB / 11+K / in under 90 pitches

ONE OF THE BEST PITCHING PERFORMANCES EVER!
— Dalton Feely (@dfeely14) June 28, 2025

It is the seventh complete game of Gray's career and his first since 2017 with the then Oakland Athletics.

Interestingly enough, it is the third time this season that Gray has struck out 10-plus batters in a game and all three times have been against teams from the American League (DET, TEX, CLE).

One of the best pitching performances you'll ever see!

Sonny Gray was DEALING tonight in Cleveland! pic.twitter.com/foVz2WxybU
— St. Louis Cardinals (@Cardinals) June 28, 2025

Gray is now tied for the National League lead in wins on the mound with eight and his 101 strikeouts for the season boost him up to 10th best in the NL.

His ability to remain consistent this season for the Cardinals could play a big role in their ability to get back to the postseason for the first time in three seasons.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

More must-reads: