2024 MLB Draft Recap: Braves and Blue Jays Score First-Round Bargains, Two-Way Players Shine

Sports | July 15, 2024, 8:23 a.m.

The 2024 MLB Draft kicked off at the Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth, Texas, with the Cleveland Guardians making history by selecting Oregon State infielder Travis Bazzana, the first Australian-born player ever taken in the first round. Bazzana, ranked as the second-best prospect, boasts an impressive .407 batting average and 28 home runs this season. Immediate winners from Day 1 include the Guardians and fans of powerful hitters like Charlie Condon, drafted by the Rockies with an eye-popping 37 home runs in college. However, standout players like Nick Kurtz, selected by the Athletics, face challenges ahead despite their talent. Notable value picks include Trey Yesavage to the Blue Jays and Cam Caminiti to the Braves. Vance Honeycutt, a promising outfielder, joins a perfect fit with the Orioles. The draft also showcases exciting two-way players and the success of Wake Forest players in the top 10 picks. Despite the thrilling talent on display, criticisms are raised about the draft's pace, calling for a return to quicker selections for an enhanced viewing experience.