New Bedford Native Shuster is First Alum to Make 2023 MLB Debut
SOUTH HADLEY, Mass. – On April 2, New Bedford Bay Sox alum and Massachusetts native Jared Shuster made his major league debut with the Atlanta Braves. He is the first former NECBL player to debut in the 2023 season, and the 220th NECBL alumni to appear in a game in the majors.
Shuster has taken the fast track to the big leagues, after spending just two seasons in the minors and making the Opening Day roster in 2023. He impressed the Braves during Spring Training, and is of high regard for manager Brian Snitker due to his efficiency and fast pace.
During his time in the NECBL for the 2018 season, Shuster was a standout with his hometown team of the New Bedford Bay Sox. He posted a 2.75 ERA and led the league with 62 strikeouts in 9 appearances.
After a breakout junior season in 2020 at Wake Forest, Shuster was drafted 25th overall by the Atlanta Braves. In 26.1 innings that spring, he struck out 43 and walked only 4 batters, putting up a 3.76 ERA as a starter.
Shortstop Zach Neto, who played one game for North Adams in 2021, became the 221st NECBL major leaguer when he was called up by the Los Angeles Angels on April 15th. He got his first major league hit today in the Patriots Day game at Fenway Park.
