Locals In MLB: Former Cougar Justin Sterner Makes Most Of MLB Debut

Jun 11, 2024, 9:35 AM

Follow @kslsports...

SALT LAKE CITY – Former BYU Cougar Justin Sterner didn’t have much time to prepare when the rookie pitcher learned he was needed in the big league bullpen. Less than a day after getting news of his first promotion to the sport’s highest level, Sterner was on the mound, facing one of the game’s hottest lineups.

Sterner debuted for the Tampa Bay Rays against the Baltimore Orioles on Friday, May 31.

“It was a special experience,” Sterner told the press following his debut. “Getting to pitch on a Friday night, in this stadium (Camden Yards) with the fans. I’m still trying to reflect on it a little bit: just a privilege and a blessing. I’m grateful I had the opportunity.

RELATED: After Continuing Family Legacy At BYU, Justin Sterner Has Eyes On MLB

The 6’1 lefty needed 28 pitches to retire six Orioles batters, working around two walks, one intentional, and a pair of base hits. Nineteen of his 28 pitches were strikes. Sterner gave himself a chance to reflect in the dugout after his debut.

“A couple of guys said this is the only time you get to debut. So take it all in; don’t regret anything on this day.”

The former BYU standout followed his debut by allowing three hits in two innings against the Miami Marlins before being optioned back to Triple-A Durham.

About Justin Sterner

Sterner built his work ethic by playing for a nationally-ranked Dana Hills High School program.

The Dolphins won their league in 2014 before rising to ninth nationally during Sterner’s junior season (2015). He had a 1.12 ERA as a senior.

Before joining the Cougars, Sterner served a two-year mission with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Apia, Samoa.

Locals In MiLB: Former Pleasant Grove Baseball Star Suffers Scary Injury

After three seasons at BYU, Sterner went undrafted in the abbreviated, five-round 2020 MLB Player Draft before inking a free-agent contract with the Miami Marlins on August 3, 2020. Less than a year later, the Marlins dealt Sterner to the Rays organization.

Sterner’s father, Jeff, played baseball at BYU as a walk-on, while his mother, Carol, played soccer.

Follow Locals in Pro Baseball With KSL Sports

Brian Preece is a KSLsports.com insider covering the Utah State Aggies, Locals in MLB, and Salt Lake Bees. Follow Brian’s Bees, Beehive baseball, and Aggie athletics coverage here.

Find KSL Sports coverage of Locals in MLB here.

Take us with you wherever you go.

Download the new & improved KSL Sports app from Utah’s sports leader. You can stream live radio and video and stay updated on all your favorite teams.

KSL 5 TV Live

KSLSports Feed

Follow @kslsports...

KSL Sports

Takeaways From Utah Basketball’s 72-61 Loss To West Virignia

Utah Basketball was on the road in Morgantown but fell 72-61 to the West Virginia Mountaineers, here are the takeaways from the game.

48 minutes ago

Follow @kslsports...

KSL Sports

Andy Reid Highlights His Faith In Choice Of Favorite Book Trilogy

At Super Bowl LIX opening night, Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid gave a great answer when asked about his favorite book trilogy.

2 hours ago

Follow @kslsports...

KSL Sports

Scoreless Final Minutes Doom Utah Basketball In 72-61 Loss To West Virginia

Unlike their previous game, Utah's final minutes were mostly scoreless as they watched West Virginia rebuilt a double-digit lead and win.

2 hours ago

Follow @kslsports...

KSL Sports

Former BYU WR Puka Nacua Reacts To Cooper Kupp Trade News

Puka Nacua took to social media after finding out his receiver running mate and mentor Cooper Kupp would be moving on from Los Angeles.

5 hours ago

Follow @kslsports...

KSL Sports

The Hat Trick: Utah Hockey Club Overwhelmed By Carolina Hurricanes In Lopsided Loss

Despite two goals from Clayton Keller, the Utah Hockey Club was completely overwhelmed by the Carolina Hurricanes in a one-sided game.

5 hours ago

Follow @kslsports...

KSL Sports

Utah Hockey Club Thrashed By Carolina Hurricanes In Blowout Loss

The Utah Hockey Club couldn't keep the magic from their previous games alive as they fell to the Carolina Hurricanes in a blowout loss on Saturday.

5 hours ago

Sponsored Articles

holiday gift basket with blue tissue paper and gingerbread cookies...

Kneaders Bakery & Cafe

Holiday hacks for a stress-free season

Get more out of your time with family and loved ones over the holidays by following these tips for a stress-free season.

2 computer techs in a computer shop holding up a computer server with the "hang loose" sign...

PC Laptops

A comprehensive guide to choosing the right computer

With these tips, choosing the right computer that fits your needs and your budget will be easier than ever.

crowds of people in a German style Christmas market...

This Is The Place Heritage Park

Celebrate Christkindlmarket at This Is The Place Heritage Park!

The Christkindlmarket is an annual holiday celebration influenced by German traditions and generous giving.

Image of pretty woman walking in snowy mountains. Portrait of female wearing warm winter earmuff, r...

Lighting Design

Brighten your mood this winter with these lighting tricks

Read our lighting tips on how to brighten your mood in the winter if you are experiencing seasonal affective disorder.

A kitchen with a washer and dryer and a refrigerator...

Appliance Man

Appliance Man: a trusted name in Utah’s home appliance industry

Despite many recent closures of local appliance stores, Appliance Man remains Utah's trusted home appliance business and is here to stay.

abstract vector digital social network technology background...

Les Olson

Protecting yourself against social engineering attacks

Learn more about the common types of social engineering to protect your online or offline assets from an attack.

Locals In MLB: Former Cougar Justin Sterner Makes Most Of MLB Debut