From Storm to the Show: Chemeketa Alum Robert Ahlstrom Called Up to Major Leagues

SALEM, Ore. — The Chemeketa Community College Athletics Department is thrilled to announce that former Storm baseball standout Robert "Robby" Ahlstrom has officially received his first call-up to Major League Baseball today.

Ahlstrom, a native of Eugene who prepped at North Eugene High School, has completed his journey through the minor league ranks, representing a monumental milestone for the Chemeketa baseball program.

The Foundation in Salem

Before dominating on the national stage, Ahlstrom laid the groundwork for his professional career right here in Salem. Wearing the Storm uniform, the left-handed pitcher was a force in the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC). His explosive performance on the mound earned him the prestigious honor of NWAC-South Player of the Year, cementing his legacy as one of the finest arms to come through the program.

Becoming a Duck

Following his dominant stint at Chemeketa, Ahlstrom moved back home to finish his collegiate career at the University of Oregon. As a cornerstone of the Oregon Ducks' pitching staff, he elevated his game to elite status.

His breakout season came in 2021, where he served as the Ducks' Friday night ace. Ahlstrom put together a stellar 9-3 record across 14 starts, turning in a microscopic 2.50 ERA over 90.0 innings pitched. He racked up 92 strikeouts against just 16 walks, earning First-Team All-Pac-12 honors and leading the Ducks to an NCAA Regional host spot.

The Draft and the Professional Climb

Ahlstrom's masterful 2021 season caught the attention of Major League scouts. In the 2021 MLB First-Year Player Draft, he was selected by the New York Yankees in the 7th round with the 213th overall pick.

Shortly after starting his professional career, Ahlstrom was acquired by the Texas Rangers organization in a high-profile 2022 trade that sent catcher Jose Trevino to New York. From there, the southpaw began a steady, determined climb through the Rangers' farm system:

• 2022: Split time between Low-A Down East and High-A Hickory, adjusting to professional bats and striking out 106 batters in 89.1 innings.

• 2023: Transitioned into a highly effective relief role, pitching to a 3.86 ERA across 40 appearances between High-A Hickory and Double-A Frisco.

• 2024: Continued his upward trajectory, dominant in Double-A Frisco with a 1.85 ERA before earning a promotion to the Triple-A Round Rock Express.

• 2025: Proved to be a durable late-inning weapon, appearing in 53 games out of the bullpen across Double-A and Triple-A.

• 2026: Obliterated Triple-A competition early this season with Round Rock, posting a stellar 2.76 ERA and a blistering 0.95 WHIP over 21 appearances, striking out 33 batters in 29.1 innings to force the big-league club's hand.

Now, the local product who once commanded the mound for the Storm is officially a Major Leaguer. The entire Chemeketa Community College community congratulates Robby on this incredible achievement and wishes him the absolute best as he makes his MLB debut!

#StormNation #FromStormToTheShow