Cardinal Significance
This narrative is taken from John Denton’s Cardinals Beat newsletter. For the complete newsletter, click here. You can also subscribe for regular updates.
A Symbolic Encounter
When a vivid red cardinal flew by and landed in a nearby tree, Sonny felt an overwhelming wave of emotion. This moment, occurring just a week before Father’s Day, brought tears to his eyes due to the surreal atmosphere.
A Father’s Message
In various beliefs, seeing a cardinal is viewed as a message from a deceased loved one. To Sonny Gray, this sighting served as a reminder of his late father, Jesse Gray, who remains a significant presence in his life and that of his sons, Gunnar and Declan. This poignant event coincided with a father-son game of catch in their backyard.
Connecting Through Memories
“I felt like I was communicating with my dad, acknowledging his presence,” Gray recalled, still feeling the chills. “Seeing that cardinal reminded me of our time together, playing catch as I do now with my sons, which made the moment even more special.”
Family Bonds in Baseball
Sonny, a key pitcher for the Cardinals, will spend Father’s Day away from his sons, who are participating in their own baseball games back in St. Louis. Despite this, Gunnar and Declan frequently accompany him at the Cardinals clubhouse, engaging in activities like playing catch and batting practice.
Legacy of Love
Gray attributes his healing from his father’s passing in a car accident in 2004, when Sonny was just 14, to Gunnar and Declan’s presence in his life. He keeps his father’s memory alive by writing “Dad” on his hat brim and using Jesse’s name for Gunnar’s middle name.
Honoring His Father
Gray often shares stories of his father’s athletic prowess with his sons. He holds dear the memories of their time spent together on the sports fields. “He was an incredible athlete and coach,” Gray reflects, emphasizing the lasting influence his father has on how he raises his boys today.
