Heston Kjerstad is an emerging baseball star whose talents have drawn attention from baseball fans, scouts, and analysts alike. Known for his power-hitting abilities and his all-around skill set, Kjerstad has been considered one of the top prospects in baseball. After being drafted in the first round of the 2020 MLB Draft by the Baltimore Orioles, Kjerstad has been making waves as one of the most promising players in the league.

In this article, we will take a closer look at Kjerstad’s early life, college career, professional journey, playing style, strengths, and answer some frequently asked questions that fans and analysts have been asking. By the end of this article, you’ll understand why Heston Kjerstad is being watched closely as one of the future stars of Major League Baseball.

Early Life and Background

Heston Kjerstad was born on February 12, 1999, in Amarillo, Texas. Growing up in the heart of baseball country, Kjerstad was exposed to the sport at a young age. His father, who played baseball at the collegiate level, was a strong influence on Kjerstad’s early interest in the game. Kjerstad’s passion for baseball was nurtured through his family’s support and his own competitive spirit. 

Heston attended high school at Sam Houston High School in Arlington, Texas, where he quickly became known as one of the top players in his region. His performance in high school would eventually serve as the springboard for his entry into collegiate baseball.

High School Career: Establishing Himself as a Top Prospect

During his time at Sam Houston High School, Kjerstad’s natural talent became apparent. As a multi-sport athlete, he excelled in both baseball and football, but it was clear that his future was in baseball. As a senior, he was named to multiple All-State teams and was widely regarded as one of the top high school prospects in Texas.

Kjerstad was known for his powerful bat and athleticism, traits that would become central to his playing style in his later years. In his final season of high school baseball, he posted impressive offensive numbers that drew the attention of collegiate coaches and MLB scouts. Kjerstad’s combination of power, contact ability, and fielding skills made him one of the top draft prospects in the country.

College Career at the University of Arkansas

After high school, Heston Kjerstad committed to play baseball for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks. He joined the team in 2018, and his impact was immediate. In his freshman year, Kjerstad posted an impressive .332 batting average with 8 home runs, 32 RBIs, and 7 stolen bases, quickly establishing himself as one of the top hitters on the team.

His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game from hitting for power to being a solid defender in the outfield – made him an instant impact player for the Razorbacks. His performances helped Arkansas reach the College World Series, further highlighting his potential at the collegiate level.

Sophomore Year: Breaking Through

In his sophomore year (2019), Kjerstad took his game to another level. He finished the season with a .332 batting average, 17 home runs, and 51 RBIs, showcasing his elite power and consistency. He was named a First-Team All-SEC player and earned multiple All-America honors for his dominant performances. Kjerstad was one of the most feared hitters in the nation and helped lead Arkansas to another successful season.

The 2019 season was significant for Kjerstad not only because of his impressive statistics but also because of his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. His leadership and clutch performances in the postseason further cemented his status as one of the top collegiate players.

Junior Year: Preparing for the Draft

Kjerstad’s junior year in 2020 was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but it didn’t take away from his strong preparation for the upcoming MLB Draft. At the time the season was halted, Kjerstad was hitting .448 with 2 home runs, 8 RBIs, and a .513 on-base percentage. His strong start to the season reinforced his standing as one of the top draft prospects, and his time at Arkansas had proven he was more than capable of succeeding at the professional level.

MLB Draft and Professional Career

2020 MLB Draft: A First-Round Selection Heston Kjerstad’s college career culminated in his selection by the Baltimore Orioles as the 2nd overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft. His selection was significant, as it showed the Orioles’ confidence in his potential to be a cornerstone of their rebuilding process. Kjerstad’s combination of power, contact ability, and athleticism made him an ideal choice for the Orioles, and they believed he had the potential to make an immediate impact in their farm system.

Kjerstad signed with the Orioles shortly after being drafted, and he quickly made his way to their minor league system. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kjerstad continued to develop and work on his game. The Orioles were excited to see what he would bring to their organization, with many experts projecting that he could reach the majors within a few years.

Struggles and Challenges: Health Concerns

Despite his high draft pick, Kjerstad faced an unexpected setback shortly after joining the Orioles’ organization. In early 2021, he was diagnosed with myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart, which caused him to miss the entire 2021 season. This was a significant challenge for Kjerstad, as it delayed his development and kept him away from professional baseball for a considerable amount of time. 

However, Kjerstad worked diligently on his recovery, and in 2022, he made his return to the field, much to the relief of the Orioles and their fans. His health issues did not dampen the enthusiasm surrounding his potential, and he was eager to prove himself as one of the top prospects in the Orioles’ system.

2022 Season: A Return to Form

Kjerstad’s return to the field in 2022 was met with optimism, and he quickly proved that he had fully recovered from his health issues. He played in the minor leagues for the first time since being drafted, and he impressed both coaches and scouts with his powerful bat and solid defensive skills.

In 2022, Kjerstad played for the Aberdeen IronBirds, the Orioles’ High-A affiliate, and put up solid numbers in his return. He finished the season with a .302 batting average, 9 home runs, and 40 RBIs, showcasing his power and offensive consistency. His performance marked a positive step forward in his development, and he quickly earned a reputation as one of the top prospects in the Orioles’ system.

2023 and Beyond: A Future Star

As Heston Kjerstad continues to develop in the Orioles’ system, there is growing excitement about his future in the majors. His combination of raw power, strong contact ability, and athleticism gives him the potential to be a key player for the Orioles for years to come. He remains one of the top young talents in baseball, and if he continues to stay healthy and refine his skills, Kjerstad has the chance to become a mainstay in the major leagues.

Playing Style and Strengths

Kjerstad is best known for his impressive power at the plate. He is a true power hitter, capable of hitting home runs to all fields. His swing is smooth and generates a lot of bat speed, allowing him to drive the ball with authority. His ability to hit for power while maintaining a strong contact rate sets him apart as one of the top hitters in his class.

One of the most notable aspects of Kjerstad’s game is his ability to hit for both average and power. While he is known for his ability to clear the fences, Kjerstad also has a disciplined approach at the plate and is capable of making consistent contact, allowing him to avoid striking out frequently.

Strong Arm and Defense

Kjerstad is also known for his strong arm and solid defense in the outfield. He is primarily an outfielder, and while he has the potential to play all three outfield positions, he is most commonly deployed in right field. His arm strength allows him to make strong throws to home plate and other bases, and he has the range to cover a significant portion of the outfield. 

Defensively, Kjerstad is considered a solid player who continues to improve his skills as he gets more experience. While he may not be a Gold Glove-caliber defender, his arm and athleticism make him a reliable presence in the outfield.

Plate Discipline and On-Base Skills

In addition to his power-hitting abilities, Kjerstad has shown solid plate discipline, with the ability to draw walks and avoid swinging at bad pitches. His ability to get on base makes him a threat not just as a power hitter but also as a potential run-scorer. His ability to make adjustments at the plate and stay patient with his approach will be critical to his success as he progresses through the minors and into the major leagues.

FAQs

What were Heston Kjerstad’s college statistics?

During his time at the University of Arkansas, Kjerstad was a force at the plate. Over his three years (2018-2020), he posted impressive numbers. In 2020, he slashed .448/.513/.791 with 8 home runs and 20 RBIs in just 16 games before the season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why did Heston Kjerstad miss the 2021 season?

Heston Kjerstad missed the 2021 MLB season due to health complications related to myocarditis, a heart condition. The Orioles took precautions to ensure his recovery and eventual return to the field. His absence led to a delay in his professional career, but he was cleared to return to play after recovery.

What is Heston Kjerstad’s playing style?

Kjerstad is known for his power-hitting ability and aggressive approach at the plate. He has a quick, strong swing and is capable of hitting for both average and power. His defense is solid, with good range and arm strength in the outfield. He has been described as a well-rounded player who can contribute to all aspects of the game.

What are Heston Kjerstad’s career achievements?

Some of Kjerstad’s most notable achievements include being named a consensus All-American in 2019, being a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, and earning All-SEC honors multiple times during his college career. His 2020 draft selection as the 2nd overall pick marked a major milestone in his career.

When did Heston Kjerstad make his professional debut?

After missing the 2021 season due to health reasons, Kjerstad made his professional debut in 2022 with the Orioles’ affiliate teams, starting in the minor leagues and working his way up. He showed promise with his bat and quickly became one of the top prospects in the Orioles’ system.

In Summary

Heston Kjerstad is a promising young talent with a bright future ahead in Major League Baseball. Known for his powerful bat, strong outfield play, and solid all-around game, Kjerstad has overcome significant challenges, including missing a season due to myocarditis, to position himself as one of the top prospects in the Baltimore Orioles’ farm system. His journey from college standout at the University of Arkansas to a second overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft has captured the attention of baseball fans and experts alike.

As he continues to develop in the minor leagues, the expectations are high for Kjerstad to make a major league impact in the coming years. With his determination, skills, and potential, it’s clear that Heston Kjerstad is a player to watch in the future of MLB. Fans are eager to see him fulfill his potential and contribute to the Orioles’ resurgence.

To read more, Click Here .