2024 MLB Draft Live Updates: Cleveland Guardians Select Travis Bazzana as No. 1 Overall Pick, Reds Choose RHP Chase Burns at No. 2

Sports | July 14, 2024, 7:34 p.m.

The Washington Nationals surprised many by selecting Seaver King over highly touted prospects Bryce Rainer and Braden Montgomery in the MLB draft. The move was even more unexpected considering the trade earlier in the weekend that brought in additional draft picks and bonus pool money. King, a versatile athlete with potential to play multiple positions, was projected to be taken later in the first round, leaving the Nationals with an opportunity to save money on his deal. With the bonus pool money from the trade, Washington now has the flexibility to potentially sign a top-ranked player who falls to them in the second round. This strategic move by the Nationals front office, led by Mike Rizzo, highlights their commitment to building a competitive team through shrewd draft picks and financial planning.