Alhambra Grad Climbing Through Minors

Pitcher Robert Stephenson is strong-arming the competition with a fastball that flirts with triple digits.

Stephenson, an Alhambra High School grad, recently earned a promotion to the Bakersfield Blaze, the Cincinnati Reds' Class-A Advanced squad, according to the Contra Costa Times.

Stephenson was the 27th pick overall in the 2011 draft.

In his first start for the Blaze on July 19, Stephenson allowed three runs — two earned — in six innings against Visalia.