Justin Sterner Bio
Justin James Sterner is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Athletics of Major League Baseball (MLB). Born on August 29, 1996, he has previously played in MLB for the Tampa Bay Rays. Sterner graduated from Dana Hills High School in Dana Point, California, and later attended Brigham Young University, where he played college baseball. He signed with the Miami Marlins in 2020 as an undrafted free agent and made his professional debut in 2021. After a successful stint in the minors, Sterner made his MLB debut in 2024.
Early Life and Background
Justin Sterner was born in the United States and grew up in Dana Point, California. He attended Dana Hills High School, where he was likely exposed to baseball at an early age, developing his skills and passion for the sport. Following high school, he completed a two-year mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Apia, Samoa, which provided him with unique life experiences before returning to pursue his baseball career. After his mission, Sterner attended Brigham Young University, where he played for the BYU Cougars, further honing his abilities as a pitcher.
Path to Baseball
Justin Sterner’s journey to professional baseball began when he signed with the Miami Marlins as an undrafted free agent on August 3, 2020. Despite not being selected in the 2020 MLB Draft, he showcased his talent and determination by making a strong impression in the minor leagues. He did not play in any games during the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but he made his professional debut in 2021 with the Single-A Jupiter Hammerheads, where he posted an impressive 1.38 earned run average (ERA) across seven appearances. Sterner’s performance earned him a promotion to the High-A Beloit Snappers, where he continued to develop his skills.
Justin Sterner Career
Early Career (2021-2023)
After his successful debut season, Justin Sterner was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays on July 3, 2021, where he continued to build his career. He finished the 2021 season with the High-A Bowling Green Hot Rods and Double-A Montgomery Biscuits. In 2022, Sterner split his time between Montgomery and the Triple-A Durham Bulls, achieving a 6-2 record with a 3.94 ERA and 65 strikeouts over 48 innings. He played the 2023 season back with Montgomery and Durham, where he combined for a 5.27 ERA and 71 strikeouts in 34 appearances.
Breakthrough (2024)
Justin Sterner’s breakthrough year came in 2024 when he began the season with the Durham Bulls. He compiled a 3.60 ERA with 33 strikeouts across 25 innings pitched. On May 31, 2024, he was selected to the 40-man roster and made his major league debut with the Tampa Bay Rays. During his rookie campaign, he made two appearances, allowing two runs (one earned) on five hits with four strikeouts over four innings pitched. His performance in the majors marked a significant milestone in his career.
Notable Works and Milestones
Justin Sterner’s signature work includes his time with the Tampa Bay Rays and his transition to the Oakland Athletics. He recorded his first career win on April 25, 2025, after tossing 1+1⁄3 scoreless innings against the Chicago White Sox. Notably, he did not give up a run in his first 18+2⁄3 innings pitched for the Athletics, showcasing his potential as a reliable pitcher.
Justin Sterner Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Justin Sterner has not yet received any major award nominations, but his continued performance in the MLB may lead to future recognition as he establishes himself as a prominent player in the league.
Justin Sterner Awards Won
As of now, Justin Sterner has not won any official awards in his professional baseball career. However, his achievements in the minor leagues and his recent success in the MLB indicate a promising future ahead.
Justin Sterner Family
There is limited public information available about Justin Sterner’s family. Details regarding his parents and siblings have not been disclosed.
Personal Life
Justin Sterner has maintained a relatively private personal life. Information regarding his marital status or any potential partners has not been made public. As he continues his career in Major League Baseball, more details about his personal life may emerge.