2024 Draft: Bold Predictions for Top Draft Picks
The 2024 MLB Draft Lottery: An Insightful Breakdown
With the second annual MLB Draft Lottery set to take place on Tuesday at the Winter Meetings in Nashville (live on MLB Network at 5:30 p.m. ET), we take a look at the 17 teams vying for the first pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. Six of these teams will be awarded the top six picks, shaping the first round of the draft.
The Potential Top Picks
On a recent episode of the MLB Pipeline Podcast, hosts Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo predicted the first 10 picks for the 2024 Draft. Their selection consisted of top college and high school prospects, with nine of the players hailing from colleges.
1. JJ Wetherholt, INF, West Virginia
According to Mayo, Wetherholt is an “unbelievable hitter” who won the batting title last year with an average of almost .450. His speed and power have shown up on the pitch, stealing several bases. His performance in the spring may showcase his ability to play as a shortstop, giving him a slight edge over other top college players.
2. Nick Kurtz, 1B, Wake Forest
Callis says that in this draft, there isn’t a clear-cut No. 1 pick. If Wetherholt doesn’t maintain his shortstop position, Kurtz, who has a blend of hitting ability and power, could potentially be the first pick. He impressed last year with 24 home runs and a solid first base game. It’s suggested that Kurtz might even try on an outfield corner due to his good movement.
3. Travis Bazzana, 2B, Oregon State
With a record of stolen bases and an average of .370, Bazzana is known for his hitting ability. Mayo believes his power-speed combination will shine this year at Oregon State.
4. Chase Burns, RHP, Wake Forest
Callis considers Burns one of the best pitchers in the country. With a 95-97 mph fastball that reaches up to 102, and a slider that generated a 61 percent swing-and-miss rate last spring, he demonstrates remarkable pitching skills.
5. Jac Caglianone, 1B/LHP, Florida
Mayo describes Caglianone as a “two-way player” – he can hit with a ton of power and also pitch with a fastball in the upper 90s. Despite some command issues and a tendency to chase, he remains an interesting prospect.
6. Charlie Condon, 1B/OF, Georgia
Callis believes that Condon, who hit 25 homers last year, combines hitting ability with power, similar to Nick Kurtz. He remarks, however, that the defense may not be as strong for him as it is for a first baseman.
7. Brody Brecht, RHP, Iowa
Brecht is an exceptionally athletic player, according to Mayo. With a fastball that hits triple digits and a nasty slider, Brecht offers a promising prospect if he can improve his command and feel of the game.
8. Vance Honeycutt, OF, North Carolina
Callis views Honeycutt as a player with possible high physical upside. Being the ACC Defensive Player of the Year, he has the potential to become a five-tool center fielder.
9. PJ Morlando, Summerville (NC) HS, OF
Mayo lauds Morlando’s hitting track record, considering him a strong candidate for the top 10. He believes Morlando’s bat speed and power will make him an attractive pick.
10. Tommy White, 3B, LSU
Callis suggests that White, despite likely ending up as a first baseman in the long run, will be a valuable pick due to his hitting ability and power.
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