All-Star pitcher's season ends abruptly

Josiah Gray was a 2023 All-Star with the Nationals, posting a 3.41 ERA in 18 first-half starts. His 2024 season ended on April 4 when he suffered a torn UCL, requiring Tommy John surgery in July.

Two years of isolation and rehab

Gray spent over two years rehabbing away from the majors, dealing with the isolation of professional recovery. He had to shift his mindset from dwelling on what could have been to focusing on what he could do moving forward.

“It's the hard part of being a baseball player, with the injuries and the rehab part of that.”

A setback during spring training

Gray felt something wasn't right during the last week of spring training in 2024. He was optioned to Triple-A Rochester but soon reported pain and was diagnosed with a right flexor strain.

Finding peace in the present moment

Gray learned to stop asking what he could have done differently and instead focus on what he could do from that point forward. This shift in perspective offered him peace during the difficult rehab process.

“What can I do differently from this point on?”

Support system keeps him grounded

Family members, past and present teammates like Erick Fedde and Jake Irvin offered Gray advice and perspective. They reminded him that his last start wouldn't define his career.

Mental freedom from pain

By August, Gray said he was no longer throwing in pain or worrying about his elbow daily. He called it a mentally freeing feeling he didn't know he would experience again.

“It's a mentally freeing thing that I didn't know I would truly feel again.”

Activated and ready for September

Gray was activated Thursday after more than two years away from the majors. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity and said his first feeling was appreciation when the assistant general manager called.

“Just happy to be where my feet are right now and be able to pitch in a big league ballgame.”

Bullpen role offers fresh start

Gray will shift to a bullpen role for the rest of the season, which is unfamiliar but gives him a chance to face major league hitters and build momentum into the offseason.

First appearance against St. Louis

Gray pitched Friday night in St. Louis in his first major league game since April 4, 2024. He entered in the ninth inning with the Nationals up 9-1 and got three outs after allowing a leadoff single.

More of his story to write

Gray knows his comeback is about more than just returning. He wants to help the Nationals win and show he's back to himself, not just make a symbolic appearance.

“I want to come up here and help these guys win and continue to make an impact.”