The 2024 MLB Draft commenced on Sunday night at the historic Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth, Texas, sparking a multitude of storylines as the league’s future stars heard their names called. Rounds one and two witnessed 74 players stepping into the limelight, with Tuesday and Wednesday set for rounds three through ten and eleven through twenty, respectively.
A Groundbreaking First Pick
The Cleveland Guardians made a splash by using the franchise's first-ever No. 1 overall selection to draft Oregon State infielder Travis Bazzana. Bazzana, known for his significant power at the plate, is the first Australian-born player ever chosen in the top round. In the spring season, he boasted an impressive slash line of .407/.568/.911 with 28 home runs, drawing the attention of scouts and analysts alike. "Bazzana was our second ranked prospect but he was a worthy pick at No. 1, and he brings needed power to an organization that develops bat-to-ball ability very well," remarked an unnamed expert.
Top Power Prospects Find Their Homes
Among other notable selections, the Colorado Rockies picked up Georgia's Charlie Condon with the No. 3 pick. Condon, who hit .433/.556/1.009 with 37 homers, brings a potent bat to Coors Field. "The draft's top power hitter in Coors Field? You have to love it," commented an insider. Meanwhile, the Oakland Athletics chose Nick Kurtz at No. 4, securing a signing bonus of $8,370,800. Yet, despite the celebratory moment, one observer noted the challenge ahead: "To be clear, Sunday was a wonderful day for Kurtz and his family... but the poor kid is stuck playing for John Fisher, the worst owner in baseball."
Pitchers with Promises and Concerns
Pitching talent also drew substantial attention in the draft. The Blue Jays took East Carolina righty Trey Yesavage with the No. 20 pick, despite his recent health scare involving a partially collapsed lung. "College pitchers with Yesavage's deep arsenal and track record don’t make it outside the top 15 very often," noted a source. The Braves, on the other hand, selected Cam Caminiti, a lefty from an Arizona high school, at No. 24. A comparison to a big-league star followed swiftly: "Max Fried starter kit," an expert described.
Two-Way Talents and Unique Players
Significantly, the draft also highlighted players with unique skills and versatile talents. The Royals picked Florida's Jac Caglianone at No. 6, envisioning him as a two-way player to deploy both at the plate and on the mound. "Headlined by Florida’s Jac Caglianone, a few two-way talents were selected in the first round," an insider noted. Jurrangelo Cijntje, selected by the Mariners at No. 15, is making waves as a switch-pitcher, able to throw effectively with both arms. "It's legit stuff from both sides," said an analyst.
History in the Making
Wake Forest emerged prominently during the draft's early stage, with three of its players chosen within the top ten picks—a feat last managed by Rice University in 2004. Right-hander Chase Burns was picked No. 2 by the Reds, first baseman Nick Kurtz went No. 4 to the Athletics, and infielder Seaver King was taken at No. 10 by the Nationals, placing Wake Forest in elite company.
Bringing Skill Sets to the Right Teams
The Orioles might have found a perfect match in North Carolina outfielder Vance Honeycutt, whom they selected at No. 22. "Perhaps the best draft match of skill set and organization is North Carolina outfielder Vance Honeycutt going to the Orioles," speculated an expert.
Pace and Excitement
The MLB Draft has been historically associated with meticulous organization and a steady pace, with approximately five minutes scheduled between picks in the first round. However, opinions on the draft's tempo vary. An observer eloquently summed up a growing sentiment: "Speaking as someone who loves the pitch clock—it is the best rule change since the DH—the pace of the draft is agonizing."
Overall, the 2024 MLB Draft has showcased a rich tapestry of high-ceiling prospects and unique talents, setting the stage for the future of baseball. As the rounds progress, teams will continue to build their rosters with the hopes of unearthing the next generation of stars.