Jared Koenig’s Journey to MLB: From Independent League to Playoffs

Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Jared Koenig, a former collegiate pitcher at Cal State Monterey Bay, has achieved his dream of playing in Major League Baseball. After spending years with independent teams, Koenig is now part of the Milwaukee Brewers bullpen, having pitched in the team’s first three playoff games against the Chicago Cubs.

Koenig’s path to the majors began in 2017 when he joined the Monterey Amberjacks. Undrafted in 2016 from CSUMB, he has made a remarkable comeback, going 6-1 for the Brewers in the regular season with a 2.88 earned run average and two saves. The 31-year-old left-handed pitcher has been a reliable asset, appearing in 72 games this season, striking out 68 batters in 66 innings.

Originally signed by the Oakland Athletics’ international scout in 2019, Koenig made his MLB debut in 2022. Following a stint with the San Diego Padres, he joined Milwaukee’s Double-A affiliate in 2023 and has proven himself in the majors since being called up. In the postseason, he has allowed just three hits and has accumulated a strikeout in three innings of relief.

Koenig’s impressive performance is a culmination of hard work, including his time in independent leagues where he earned accolades such as Pitcher of the Year in the Pacific Association in 2018. His success includes a notable 2.24 ERA in the Frontier League and being recognized as Pitcher of the Year in the A’s Double-A team in 2021.

Now, Koenig is set to help the Brewers advance to the National League Championship Series, where they will face the Los Angeles Dodgers. His journey serves as an inspiration for many aspiring athletes looking to make it in professional sports.