The 2024 MLB Draft: A Comprehensive Recap of the First Two Rounds
The 2024 MLB Draft kicked off in Fort Worth, Texas, with the first two rounds concluding on Sunday night. This year’s draft saw a multitude of talented athletes taking their initial steps toward professional baseball careers. With a host of exciting picks and some historical firsts, the event was a spectacle for baseball fans and analysts alike.
Introduction
The draft was headlined by Oregon State second baseman Travis Bazzana, who was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Cleveland Guardians. This selection was notable for several reasons: Bazzana is the first second baseman to ever be chosen first overall, and he is also the first Australian to achieve this milestone. The event not only showcased the best college and high school talent but also highlighted the growing international influence on the sport.
In addition to Bazzana, Wake Forest University had a strong showing with three players being picked in the top 10. These selections underline the program’s growing reputation for producing top-tier baseball talent. The draft also saw several other standout moments, including picks influenced by previous Rookie of the Year awards and competitive balance considerations.
Key Highlights from the First Two Rounds
Travis Bazzana: A Historic First Pick
Travis Bazzana’s selection as the No. 1 overall pick was a groundbreaking moment in MLB Draft history. The Cleveland Guardians made headlines by choosing the Oregon State second baseman, who set a school record with 28 home runs in his junior year. Bazzana’s achievement is significant not only because he is the first second baseman to be picked first overall but also because he is the first Australian to receive this honor.
- Bazzana’s Achievements:
- School-record 28 home runs in his junior year.
- First second baseman to be picked No. 1 overall.
- First Australian to be selected No. 1 in the MLB Draft.
Wake Forest’s Impressive Showing
Wake Forest University had an outstanding representation in the top 10 picks, with three players making the list. Right-handed pitcher Chase Burns was picked second overall by the Cincinnati Reds, first baseman Nick Kurtz went fifth to the Oakland Athletics, and shortstop Seaver King was selected tenth by the Washington Nationals.
- Wake Forest Top Picks:
- Chase Burns: No. 2 overall to the Cincinnati Reds.
- Nick Kurtz: No. 5 overall to the Oakland Athletics.
- Seaver King: No. 10 overall to the Washington Nationals.
Texas A&M’s Dual Picks
Texas A&M also saw two of its players selected in the first two rounds. Outfielder Braden Montgomery was picked 12th overall by the Boston Red Sox, while high-velocity right-handed pitcher Chris Cortez went 45th overall to the Los Angeles Angels. Montgomery’s selection was particularly noteworthy given his recovery from a season-ending ankle injury.
- Texas A&M Picks:
- Braden Montgomery: No. 12 overall to the Boston Red Sox.
- Chris Cortez: No. 45 overall to the Los Angeles Angels.
Detailed Recap of the First Night
Key Moments and Picks
The first night of the draft was filled with exciting selections and intriguing storylines. From high school standouts to college stars, the picks showcased a wide range of talent.
- Cleveland Guardians’ First Pick:
- Travis Bazzana from Oregon State.
Notable for being the first second baseman and Australian to be picked No. 1 overall.
Cincinnati Reds’ Selection:
- Chase Burns from Wake Forest.
Known for his elite fastball and slider combination.
Oakland Athletics’ Choice:
- Nick Kurtz from Wake Forest.
- A two-time first-team All-ACC selection.
Competitive Balance and Compensation Picks
The draft also included compensation picks awarded due to previous Rookie of the Year awards and the signing of qualifying free agents. For instance, the Arizona Diamondbacks and Baltimore Orioles received compensation picks for Corbin Carroll and Gunnar Henderson’s Rookie of the Year wins, respectively.
- Compensation Picks:
- Diamondbacks: Kentucky outfielder Ryan Waldschmidt.
- Orioles: Virginia shortstop Griff O’Ferrall.
Notable College and High School Selections
High School Standouts
High school players also made a significant impact on the draft. The Pittsburgh Pirates selected Konnor Griffin, a high school prospect known for his speed and arm strength, while the Detroit Tigers picked Bryce Rainer, a shortstop from Harvard-Westlake High School.
- High School Picks:
- Konnor Griffin: Selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
- Bryce Rainer: Selected by the Detroit Tigers.
College Stars
College players dominated the early rounds, with several making significant impressions due to their collegiate achievements. The San Francisco Giants selected James Tibbs III, an outfielder from Florida State, who is known for his polished hitting skills.
- College Picks:
- James Tibbs III: Selected by the San Francisco Giants.
- Carson Benge: A two-way player from Oklahoma State, picked by the New York Mets.
FAQs
What is the significance of Travis Bazzana’s selection as the No. 1 pick?
Travis Bazzana’s selection is historic because he is the first second baseman and the first Australian to be picked No. 1 overall in the MLB Draft.
How many rounds are there in the MLB Draft?
The MLB Draft consists of 20 rounds, with the first two rounds being completed on the first night.
What are competitive balance picks?
Competitive balance picks are additional selections awarded to teams with smaller markets or revenue pools. These picks can be traded but are not subject to forfeiture.
Who are some of the notable high school players selected in the first two rounds?
Notable high school players include Konnor Griffin, selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates, and Bryce Rainer, picked by the Detroit Tigers.
How are compensation picks awarded?
Compensation picks are awarded to teams that lose qualifying free agents or have players win Rookie of the Year awards. These picks are given to help balance the competitive landscape.
Conclusion
The first two rounds of the 2024 MLB Draft were filled with excitement and memorable moments. From historic firsts to standout selections from both college and high school ranks, the draft showcased a wide array of talent ready to make their mark in professional baseball. As the draft continues, it will be intriguing to see how these young athletes develop and contribute to their respective teams. The future of baseball looks bright with this new crop of talented players.
