AJ Blubaugh Realizes Dream Playing at Progressive Field

AJ Blubaugh returned to Progressive Field on Monday, April 20 for his first major-league game at the ballpark he loved as a child. The 2019 Clear Fork graduate described the moment as emotional and deeply meaningful. AJ Blubaugh realizes a childhood dream while playing at Progressive Field.

Homecoming and early memories

Blubaugh grew up watching Cleveland teams during the 2000s and 2010s. He collected memories like a foul ball off Casey Blake and following players such as Grady Sizemore and Cliff Lee.

He spent 18 years in the Cleveland area but did not attend many games as a youngster. A few outings, including a birthday visit, stood out among those experiences.

Family and community support

He keeps his offseason residence in Clear Fork with parents Reggie and Erin. His sister played basketball at MVNU, and he often spent time with his siblings while home.

Two buses of Clear Fork students and faculty traveled to Progressive Field to cheer him on. His parents, girlfriend, and several friends were also in attendance.

Blubaugh praised his mother’s meal prep, noting she spent hours cooking weekly. He and a teammate nicknamed Benny reportedly consumed about three gallons of milk each week.

Professional path to the majors

Blubaugh played college baseball at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The Houston Astros selected him in the seventh round of the 2022 draft.

He made 11 appearances in 2025 and finished that year on a 21-scoreless-inning streak. That run helped him secure a spot on the opening-day roster.

He learned of the roster decision at Daikin Park when Astros manager Joe Espada called him into his office. The call confirmed his place on the team out of spring training.

Recent performance

Through nine appearances this season he is 2-2 with a 7.07 ERA. He has 12 strikeouts in 14 innings during that stretch.

For his career he is 5-3 with a 3.33 ERA. He has 47 strikeouts in 46 innings across 20 major-league appearances.

Game conditions and outlook

The first pitch that night came in at about 39 degrees. He acknowledged his dislike of cold weather but said adrenaline helps once he is on the mound.

Blubaugh said he left tickets for many family and friends. He will not be able to visit home during this road trip, but expects continued support on the road.

Blubaugh still considers himself a Houston player, despite his Cleveland roots. Filmogaz.com reported on his homecoming and the crowd that accompanied him to Progressive Field.