Heston Sawyer Kjerstad, born on February 12, 1999, in Amarillo, Texas, has emerged as one of the most talked-about young talents in the Baltimore Orioles’ system. A powerful left-handed hitter with the ability to play both outfield and first base, Kjerstad’s journey to the major leagues has been marked by high expectations, significant hurdles, and ultimately, the realization of his potential. As of May 2, 2025, Kjerstad continues to carve out his role with the Orioles, showcasing the skills that made him the second overall pick in the 2020 Major League Baseball (MLB) Draft.
Early Life and Amateur Career
Kjerstad’s baseball journey began in his hometown of Amarillo. He honed his skills at Canyon Randall High School, where his talent was evident enough to get him drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 36th round of the 2017 MLB Draft. However, he chose not to sign, opting instead to play college baseball for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks.
His time in Fayetteville was nothing short of spectacular. In his freshman year (2019), Kjerstad batted .332 with 14 home runs and 58 RBIs, earning him the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Freshman of the Year award and All-SEC honors. He continued his impressive performance, and in the shortened 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he was hitting .448 with six home runs and 20 RBIs in just 16 games. This dominant showing solidified his status as a top prospect heading into the 2020 MLB Draft.
The 2020 MLB Draft and Professional Debut Delay
The Baltimore Orioles, holding the second overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, selected Heston Kjerstad. This pick was met with some surprise by analysts who had other players ranked higher, but the Orioles clearly saw immense potential in Kjerstad’s offensive capabilities. He signed with the team for a reported $5.2 million bonus.
However, Kjerstad’s professional debut was delayed due to a diagnosis of myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, which he developed after signing. This condition sidelined him for the entire 2021 season, a significant setback for the young player and the Orioles organization.
Navigating the Minor Leagues
After a long wait, Kjerstad finally made his professional debut on June 10, 2022, with the Single-A Delmarva Shorebirds. He quickly demonstrated his hitting prowess, batting an impressive .463 with 37 hits and 17 RBIs in just 22 games. This stellar performance earned him a promotion to the High-A Aberdeen IronBirds in early July.
With Aberdeen, Kjerstad faced a tougher challenge, hitting .233 in 43 games. However, he finished the 2022 season strong in the Arizona Fall League, where he batted .371, led the league in at-bats (89) and doubles (9), and was named the league’s Most Valuable Player. This resurgence provided a strong indication of his potential and resilience.
The 2023 season saw Kjerstad continue his ascent through the Orioles’ farm system. He started the year with the Double-A Bowie Baysox, where he also began playing first base in addition to his outfield duties. His strong performance led to a promotion to the Triple-A Norfolk Tides. Across both levels, he batted .303 with 21 home runs and 55 RBIs in 122 games. He was also selected to participate in the 2023 SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game.
Major League Debut and Early Career
On September 14, 2023, Kjerstad’s perseverance paid off as he was called up to the Baltimore Orioles’ major league roster following an injury to Ryan Mountcastle. The following night, he made his MLB debut against the Tampa Bay Rays and made it a memorable one by hitting a solo home run off Zach Eflin for his first major league hit, breaking up Eflin’s no-hitter attempt in the sixth inning. He appeared in 13 games during his rookie campaign, batting .233 with two home runs and three RBIs.
Kjerstad began the 2024 season back in Triple-A Norfolk. He made headlines early in the season by setting a single-game Tides record with 10 RBIs in a game on April 3, going 5-for-7 with two doubles and two home runs. He was recalled to the major leagues on April 23, 2024, and played in 39 MLB games that season, batting .253 with four home runs and 14 RBIs. However, his season was interrupted by two stints on the injured list due to a concussion sustained in July.
2025 Season and Current Status
Entering the 2025 season, Kjerstad was considered a strong candidate to make the Orioles’ Opening Day roster. General Manager Mike Elias acknowledged his potential for a significant role in the outfield and as a designated hitter, particularly against right-handed pitching.
As of early May 2025, Kjerstad has been actively contributing to the Baltimore Orioles. While his batting average in the early part of the season stands at .203 with three home runs and 12 RBIs in 39 games, his underlying metrics, such as a strong hard-hit rate, suggest that he has the potential for more offensive production. He has shown flashes of his power, including a grand slam against the Detroit Tigers earlier in the season.
Recent news indicates that Kjerstad has been dealing with some minor injuries, including an elbow bruise sustained in April, which briefly kept him out of the lineup. He has also been occasionally held out of the lineup against left-handed starting pitchers, reflecting the team’s strategic use of their roster.
YouTube Presence and Fan Engagement
Heston Kjerstad has a presence on YouTube, with various channels, including those affiliated with MASN Orioles and ESPN MLB, featuring highlights, interviews, and game breakdowns. These videos often capture his on-field performances, post-game reactions, and insights into his development as a player.
A notable recent YouTube moment involved an incident during a game against the New York Yankees where a collision at second base led to benches clearing. Videos of this event, providing breakdowns and different perspectives, have garnered significant attention, highlighting Kjerstad’s competitive nature and the team’s unity.
Other popular YouTube content includes highlights of his home runs, particularly his first MLB home run, and interviews where he discusses his journey, his approach to the game, and his goals with the Orioles. These videos offer fans a closer look at Kjerstad’s personality and his progress as a key member of the team.
Prospect Rankings and Future Outlook
Throughout his minor league career, Heston Kjerstad was consistently ranked among the top prospects in the Orioles’ organization and in baseball overall. Rankings from MLB Pipeline, Baseball America, and MiLB.com placed him high on their lists, often within the top 100 prospects in the sport. These rankings acknowledged his impressive hitting ability, particularly his power potential.
While Kjerstad has now “graduated” from prospect status by exceeding the innings/at-bat thresholds, the skills that earned him those high rankings are still evident. His ability to hit for power and average in the minor leagues suggests that he can become a significant offensive contributor at the major league level with consistent playing time.
The Orioles have a wealth of young talent, and Kjerstad is part of a group of highly regarded players who are now making their mark in the majors. His versatility to play both corner outfield spots and first base adds to his value. As he gains more experience and consistent opportunities, he is expected to further develop his game and become a key piece of the Orioles’ future.
Personal Life
Heston Kjerstad married his wife, Klaire, in December 2024. His older brother, Dexter, also played professional baseball in the minor league systems of the Kansas City Royals and Seattle Mariners. Interestingly, the Kjerstad family dog, Oreo, gained some viral fame on the night Heston was drafted in 2020. Growing up, Kjerstad’s favorite player was the legendary Derek Jeter.
FAQs
Who is Heston Kjerstad?
Heston Sawyer Kjerstad is an American professional baseball player, currently serving as an outfielder and first baseman for the Baltimore Orioles in Major League Baseball (MLB). Born on February 12, 1999, in Amarillo, Texas, Kjerstad was the second overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft, selected by the Orioles after a standout collegiate career at the University of Arkansas .
What were Heston Kjerstad’s achievements in college baseball?
At the University of Arkansas, Kjerstad made an immediate impact. As a freshman, he was named the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Freshman of the Year, batting .332 with 14 home runs and 58 RBIs. He continued his strong performance in his sophomore year, earning second-team All-SEC honors with a .327 average and 17 home runs. Kjerstad played a pivotal role in leading the Razorbacks to consecutive College World Series appearances and was recognized as a Freshman All-American .
When did Heston Kjerstad make his MLB debut?
Kjerstad made his MLB debut with the Baltimore Orioles on September 14, 2023. In his second game, he recorded his first major league hit—a solo home run—on September 15, 2023, against the Tampa Bay Rays .
What challenges has Heston Kjerstad faced in his professional career?
Kjerstad’s professional journey has been marked by significant health challenges. Shortly after signing with the Orioles, he was diagnosed with myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, which sidelined him for the entire 2021 season. In 2022, a severe hamstring strain delayed his professional debut. Additionally, in July 2024, he suffered a concussion after being hit by a pitch, leading to multiple stints on the injured list .
How has Heston Kjerstad performed in the MLB so far?
As of April 26, 2025, Kjerstad has a career batting average of .236, with 9 home runs and 29 RBIs in the major leagues. His 2024 season saw him batting .253 with 4 home runs and 14 RBIs over 39 games .
What positions does Heston Kjerstad play?
Primarily an outfielder, Kjerstad has also taken on the role of first baseman. His versatility in the field has been an asset to the Orioles, allowing him to contribute in multiple defensive positions .
What is Heston Kjerstad’s playing style?
Kjerstad is known for his powerful left-handed swing and ability to drive the ball to all fields. His offensive prowess was evident during his time in the minor leagues, where he posted impressive slugging percentages. Defensively, his adaptability allows him to be utilized both in the outfield and at first base .
Has Heston Kjerstad received any notable accolades?
Yes, during his collegiate career, Kjerstad was named the SEC Freshman of the Year and earned multiple All-SEC honors. In the minor leagues, he was recognized as the International League Player of the Week in April 2024 and was selected to participate in the 2023 All-Star Futures Game .
What is Heston Kjerstad’s background before professional baseball?
Kjerstad grew up in Amarillo, Texas, and attended Randall High School, where he was a standout baseball player. Despite being drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 36th round of the 2017 MLB Draft, he chose to play college baseball at the University of Arkansas, where he developed into a top MLB prospect .
What are Heston Kjerstad’s prospects for the future?
Given his resilience in overcoming health challenges and his demonstrated offensive capabilities, Kjerstad is poised to become a significant contributor to the Orioles’ lineup. As he gains more experience and continues to develop, he has the potential to solidify his role as a key player in the team’s future success .
To conclude
Heston Kjerstad’s journey to the major leagues is a testament to his determination, talent, and resilience. From his early days in Amarillo, Texas, to his collegiate success at the University of Arkansas, and through the challenges of health setbacks, Kjerstad has consistently demonstrated a passion for the game and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His ability to adapt, both defensively and offensively, makes him a valuable asset to the Baltimore Orioles. As he continues to grow and develop in the MLB, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely, anticipating the impact he will have on the game in the years to come.
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