The Atlanta Braves leaned on Ray Kerr, a 32-year-old left-handed reliever once working at a 7-Eleven, to open Game 3 of their MLB playoff series against the Philadelphia Phillies. Kerr delivered 3.1 scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and striking out two, shutting down the Phillies’ powerful lineup and helping the Braves secure an early 3-0 lead.
Kerr’s outing was a rare postseason start for a reliever and a standout moment in his unconventional career. After leaving college baseball due to academic ineligibility, Kerr worked at a 7-Eleven and a local movie theatre in Reno, Nevada, before returning to the sport via Lassen Community College. His persistence earned him a spot with the Peninsula Oilers in the Alaska Baseball League, which led to tryouts with the Seattle Mariners and Miami Marlins. The Mariners signed him to a minor league deal, and Kerr made his MLB debut with the San Diego Padres in 2022 at age 27.
Before joining the Braves, Kerr made 29 appearances with the Padres over two seasons. Atlanta acquired him before the 2024 season, where he has made 19 appearances across three years despite recovering from Tommy John surgery. His role as a reliever often involves pitching more than an inning, providing length out of the bullpen that extends beyond the typical specialist’s brief stint.
In Game 3, Braves manager turned to Kerr to face Phillies stars Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber twice each. Kerr limited Schwarber to the only hit he allowed, and no runs crossed the plate during his time on the mound. His performance earned a standing ovation from the Atlanta crowd as he exited his first postseason appearance.
Across 48 MLB games, Kerr has pitched 72.2 innings with a 4.33 ERA, striking out 76 batters and allowing 66 hits and 35 earned runs. His ability to handle an opener’s role in a playoff game speaks to his value beyond typical relief duties.
Kerr’s rise from working at a convenience store to shutting down a playoff contender highlights an unusual path through professional baseball. His effectiveness against the Phillies’ lineup helped the Braves maintain control of the game and advance in the postseason.
According to Yahoo Sports.