Justin

Sterner

The A’s picked Sterner up on waivers from the Rays in November and then kept him on the 40-man all winter. He’s making a great case for a bullpen spot, as he’s allowed only an unearned run and posted an 11/1 K/BB ratio in eight innings this spring.

The 28-year-old Sterner made his MLB debut in 2024, posting a 2.25 ERA, 1.50 WHIP, and a 4/1 K/BB ratio over four innings of work. He also had a 3.28 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, and 60/17 K/BB ratio in 46 2/3 innings for Triple-A Durham, so he could be a solid addition to the Athletics’ bullpen in 2025.

Sterner was with the big-league club for just two days this time around, but he’ll head back to Triple-A to make room on the roster for the triumphant return of Shane Baz on Friday night. Sterner should get another opportunity with the Rays before the summer is through.

The 27-year-old right-hander has pitched well in two appearances with the Rays this season, posting a 2.25 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and a 4/1 K/BB ratio over his four innings of work. He’ll give manager Kevin Cash another option to deploy in the middle innings.

Sterner pitched four innings in his five days with the Rays, allowing one earned run with a 4/1 K/BB ratio. That should put him in pretty good position to get the call next time the Rays need a bullpen arm.

The Rays need a fresh arm so they recalled Sterner. He had a 3.60 ERA and SO:BB of 33:8 at Triple-A. Sterner will be making his big-league debut if he gets into a game.

The Rays continue to make their Spring Training cuts and their latest batch contains four right-handed relievers. Brigden spent the 2023 season with Triple-A Durham and where he posted a solid 3.46 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and a 95/40 K/BB ratio across 78 innings. He made four appearances during spring camp and pitched 4 1/3 innings with a save and eight strikeouts.

Sterner has made 12 relief appearances in the lower levels of the Marlins’ minor-league system. The 24-year-old righty represents a long-term lottery ticket for the Rays.