FORT MYERS, FLORIDA (AP) — Sonny Greby went a few steps further than usual and began his first practice of preseason training with a new team.
Once the right veteran arrives, he discovers that this is where he wants to be. The newly acquired starter teamed up with the Minnesota Twins for the first time on Tuesday after passing a medical examination.
The Twins bought Gray on Sunday in a deal with the Cincinnati Reds, who are canceling their payroll. Meanwhile, the twins have hinted that they will be looking to make more changes after joining Gray, who scored 4.19 with 7-9, 155 strikeouts and 4.19 in 135 1/3 innings in 2021.
“It looks like the twins are looking for more cards,” Gray said. “It was the moment I entered my career and all I really cared about was winning. I want to win.”
Gray was involved in the second of the three swaps the twins made between Saturday and Sunday. Minnesota sent catcher Mickey Garver to the Texas Rangers in exchange for shortstop Isiah Kina-Falefa, who later moved to the New York Yankees with third baseman John Donaldson to acquire Dominican receiver Gary Sanchez and Colombian infielder Gio Ursiella.
But the twins aren't done yet.
Chief Operating Officer Derek Feley said the club had greater financial flexibility after the Yankees bought the remaining $50 million from Donaldson's contract. Feely said he wanted to use the money to meet the needs of rotations, bullsheds and shortstops. The twins expressed interest in free agent Trevor Story and are in talks with the Auckland Athletics team.
“I hope we are in a better position not only on the team side, but also in terms of future plans and the flexibility it creates for the upcoming negotiations,” Ferri added.
Gray and his family were on their way to the airport to attend Reds spring training in Arizona on Sunday when Cincinnati General Manager Nick Krall talked to him and broke the news. Gray quickly realized that he now had to travel to Florida and go home to restructure.
The twins hope that two-time All-Star winner Gray will settle down after arriving with his family on Tuesday. But the pitcher wants more activity.
Not only did he attend photo days and medical exams, but he also participated in pitcher practice with his teammates. He later signed autographs and took pictures with fans.