Gray's Strong Spring Debut After Tommy John

0:00The latest scores, headlines and storylines, right here on Washington Nationals News today. Subscribe and stay game-ready. Nationals pitcher Josiah Gray made his first spring training start on Monday after a 23-month layoff from Tommy John's surgery. It was his first time on a major league mound since April 4th, 2024. Against the Astros, he pitched one and two-thirds innings, allowing one run on two hits while striking out three batters. Gray started strong by battling Jose Altuve for eight pitches before giving up a single, then fanned Jordan Alvarez and touched 94 miles per hour. In the second inning, a double-in-a-wild pitch led to the run after he hit two batters, ending his outing at 39 pitches with 25. Strikes. Gray called it a huge relief to face bigly hitters again and see positive results, especially after feeling some nerves from the long break. Manager Blake Boutera praises higher velocity as a bright spot and noted Gray's big smile

1:01on the mound. This marked Gray's first time against major league competition in nearly two years, following three scoreless minor league rehab starts last. September, the 2023 All-Star has 73 career starts and is shaking off rest while staying healthy. The Nationals have no workload limits on him this spring and he's competing for a rotation spot alongside pitchers like Kate Cavali and Jake Irvin. Gray focused on building from this solid debut as Camp continues over the next three weeks. Appreciation to our sponsor for backing this episode. Your bedtime ritual just got better. Built in sound, built in comfort. S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com