Red Sox's Sonny Gray Reportedly Was Investigated by MLB Over Potential Use of Sticky Substance

Red Sox fans felt a sudden sting of disappointment when the bullpen faltered in the decisive Game 2 of the ALWC, a stark contrast to the confidence they had after a strong start. The surprise came as the team, expected to rely on veteran starter Sonny Gray, saw the lead evaporate, leaving the clubhouse buzzing with questions rather than celebration. Chad Tracy publicly shouldered responsibility, saying the decision to lift Gray was his alone, as NBC Sports Boston reported.

MLB.com recorded Tracy’s admission that the move fell on him, while ESPN highlighted the organization’s claim that analytics did not drive the bullpen choices. Meanwhile, Bleacher Report noted that MLB opened an investigation into whether Gray employed a sticky substance, adding a regulatory twist to the on‑field misstep. The evidence ties a tactical gamble to a potential rules breach, but the league’s findings remain pending.

With the Red Sox’s postseason road now uncertain, observers wonder whether the inquiry will affect Gray’s availability or force the staff to revise their bullpen strategy ahead of the next series. The timing also puts pressure on manager Alex Cora to address both performance and compliance issues.