If you had to identify one area of the Atlanta Braves roster that seems certain to be addressed by Alex Anthopoulos before the trade deadline, the bullpen is the obvious choice. Raisel Iglesias, Robert Suarez, and Dylan Lee have formed an elite late-inning trio, but adding another reliable arm who can seamlessly slot into that mix would help lighten the workload and provide those relievers with more rest during the summer months.
Thankfully for the Braves, quality relievers are typically available in abundance at the trade deadline, and Alex Anthopoulos has consistently shown a willingness to leave no stone unturned in his search for effective bullpen help. One team worth monitoring as June approaches is the Athletics, who could have several intriguing relief arms emerge as trade candidates.
One reliever who has flown under the radar in recent seasons is right-hander Justin Sterner. The 29-year-old owns a 3.81 ERA (2.58 xERA) and a 3.88 FIP (3.29 xFIP) entering Wednesday’s action in 2026. After breaking out in 2025, Sterner has continued to build on that success thanks to his pinpoint command and deceptive delivery.
Justin Sterner HANDLES the bases-loaded jam 😤 pic.twitter.com/fcLino8APF
— Athletics on NBCS (@NBCSAthletics) April 26, 2026
Why Justin Sterner could be a great bullpen addition for Alex Anthopoulos to target this trade deadline
Sterner does not overpower hitters with velocity, but he effectively mixes his four-seam fastball, cutter, and sweeper to keep opponents off balance and limit them to a .211 expected batting average. His 17.6 K-BB% is impressive, and he has excelled at generating chase, ranking in the 93rd percentile in chase rate.
Sterner also possesses an above-average ground-ball rate, a trait that could play even better behind Atlanta’s strong infield defense. Another intriguing aspect of his profile is his reverse splits, as he has historically been more effective against left-handed hitters throughout his career. Sterner owns a career 0.85 WHIP and .226 wOBA allowed against lefties, compared to a 1.31 WHIP and .325 wOBA allowed against right-handed hitters.
While Sterner may not be the flashiest name expected to surface ahead of the trade deadline, he fits the mold of the type of under-the-radar bullpen arm Anthopoulos has targeted successfully in the past. His ability to generate weak contact, miss bats, and neutralize left-handed hitters could make him an ideal complementary piece for Atlanta’s bullpen. If the Athletics decide to sell, Sterner is a name the Braves should monitor closely as they look to further strengthen an already formidable late-inning group.
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