Kevin Herget Bio
Kevin R. Herget (born April 3, 1991) is an American professional baseball pitcher in the New York Mets organization. He has previously played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Tampa Bay Rays, Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Brewers, and Atlanta Braves. He made his MLB debut in 2022.
Early Life and Background
Kevin R. Herget was born in Teaneck, New Jersey. He played prep baseball at Park Ridge High School in Park Ridge, New Jersey. As a senior in 2009, he helped lead his team to the Group 1 championship, marking the school’s first state title since 1977. That year, he posted an impressive 1.62 earned run average (ERA), a 9-2 record, and led the team with eight home runs, 40 runs, and 33 runs batted in (RBI). In addition to baseball, he also participated in wrestling and soccer during high school.
After high school, Kevin Herget attended Kean University, where he played Division III college baseball. He set multiple records at Kean, including innings pitched (345), strikeouts (356), and wins (31). His senior year in 2015 was particularly notable, as he recorded 106 strikeouts, the second-most in Division III that season. Under his leadership, his teams reached the NCAA Division III World Series for three consecutive years. In 2021, he was inducted into Kean’s Hall of Fame, and he was the first baseball player to have his number 16 retired by the university.
Path to Baseball
Kevin Herget was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 39th round of the 2013 Major League Baseball draft. He made his professional debut with the Low-A State College Spikes. In 2014, he split the season between the Single-A Peoria Chiefs and High-A Palm Beach Cardinals, achieving a cumulative 8-3 record and a 2.71 ERA with 94 strikeouts and four saves in 76.1 innings pitched. He continued to progress through the Cardinals’ minor league system, reaching Triple-A with the Memphis Redbirds in 2016.
Throughout his early career, Herget faced challenges, including Tommy John surgery in 2019, which sidelined him for most of the season. After becoming a minor league free agent in November 2020, he signed with the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks of the American Association of Professional Baseball in January 2021. His performance there led to a contract with the Cleveland Indians organization, where he made 28 appearances for the Triple-A Columbus Clippers.
Kevin Herget Career
Early Career (2013–2021)
Kevin Herget’s early career was marked by his steady rise through the minor leagues after being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals. He made significant contributions to various teams within the Cardinals organization, showcasing his talent as a reliable pitcher. His performance in 2014, where he posted an 8-3 record and a 2.71 ERA, established him as a promising prospect. However, injuries and the cancellation of the minor league season in 2020 posed challenges to his development.
In 2021, after a successful stint with the Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks, he signed with the Cleveland Indians. His time with the Clippers was productive, as he achieved a 7-5 record with a 4.48 ERA. This performance helped him gain recognition and led to subsequent opportunities in Major League Baseball.
Breakthrough (2022–Present)
Kevin Herget made his Major League Baseball debut on September 13, 2022, with the Tampa Bay Rays after being promoted from the Triple-A Durham Bulls. His debut season was a mix of challenges and learning experiences, as he recorded a 7.71 ERA over three appearances. Despite the rocky start, he showcased his potential and continued to work on his craft.
In 2023, Herget signed a minor league contract with the Cincinnati Reds. He made a significant impact by recording his first career save on May 11, 2023, against the New York Mets. His performance with the Reds included a 5.73 ERA over 11 appearances. Following a series of transactions, including being designated for assignment, he became a free agent and signed with the Milwaukee Brewers in early 2024, where he had a promising start with a 1.59 ERA in seven appearances.
Notable Works and Milestones
Kevin Herget’s journey through professional baseball has been marked by resilience and determination. His notable achievements include setting records at Kean University and making his MLB debut with the Tampa Bay Rays. His ability to adapt and improve has been evident throughout his career, and he continues to strive for success in the Major Leagues.
Kevin Herget Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Kevin Herget has not received any major award nominations. However, his achievements at the collegiate level and his progress in professional baseball demonstrate his dedication and potential as a player.
Kevin Herget Awards Won
Kevin Herget has not won any major awards during his professional baseball career. His focus remains on improving his performance and contributing to his teams.
Kevin Herget Family
Details about Kevin Herget’s family are not publicly available. As such, there is limited information regarding his personal life and family background.
Personal Life
Information regarding Kevin Herget’s personal life, including marital status and children, is not publicly disclosed. He maintains a level of privacy concerning his personal affairs.
