Long is 26 years old and from West Des Moines, Iowa; he attended Central Methodist University in Fayette, Missouri, and was a standout for the Eagles. In his senior season, he made 15 starts, struck out 115 hitters, and threw a pair of complete-game shutouts.   

The Milwaukee Brewers noticed him and selected him in the 30th round of the 2019 draft. He was used as a reliever with Milwaukee, and in 2023, he was with the Rocky Mountain Vibes in the Pioneer League. He returned to the starting role, logged 99.2 innings, struck out 67, and threw a complete game.