In the highly anticipated first round of the 2024 MLB Draft, teams largely stuck to expectations and chose players that were highly ranked in pre-draft projections. Out of the 74 players selected on Day 1, 66 of them were in the top 100 rankings. The draft proceedings lacked major shocks or reaches, with most teams opting for the best talent available.

The Cleveland Guardians kicked off the draft by selecting Oregon State second baseman Travis Bazzana with the first overall pick, a choice considered one of the two valid options. They later took high school pitcher Braylon Doughty in their Competitive Balance Round A (CBA) pick at 36. The Guardians continued their strong draft by adding NC State catcher Jacob Cozart with their second-round selection.

The Colorado Rockies made a bold move, grabbing the top-ranked player on many draft boards, Charlie Condon, who won the prestigious Golden Spikes award. They also chose Iowa right-hander Brody Brecht in their CBA pick at 38, showing a willingness to take risks on high-upside pitching prospects.

The Arizona Diamondbacks made notable selections by adding high school outfielder Slade Caldwell and Kentucky outfielder Ryan Waldschmidt, both ranked in the top 15. They also took a chance on high school infielder JD Dix and reached for Puerto Rican catcher Ivan Luciano.

The Kansas City Royals made an interesting move by selecting Jac Caglianone at the sixth overall pick. While there is speculation about his abilities as a two-way player, the Royals focused on his power-hitting potential. They also added left-hander David Shields, a high school prospect with promising delivery and pitching instincts.

Both New York teams had successful first rounds. The New York Mets chose Carson Benge, a hitter with raw power, and Jonathan Santucci, a left-handed pitcher with first-round talent but injury concerns. Meanwhile, the New York Yankees took Alabama right-hander Ben Hess and Vanderbilt righty Bryce Cunningham, two pitchers who fit well into their player development system.

The Seattle Mariners, known for their desire for pitching, made solid picks with switch-pitcher Jurrangelo Cijntje and prep right-hander Ryan Sloan. These selections added much-needed pitching depth to the team's hitter-heavy system.

The Washington Nationals made wise choices by selecting Wake Forest shortstop/centerfielder Seaver King, high school infielder Luke Dickerson, and Cal catcher Caleb Lomavita. While Lomavita offers fair value, concerns remain about his impatience at the plate.

The Milwaukee Brewers and Philadelphia Phillies surprised some in the draft by choosing Braylon Payne and Dante Nori respectively. Payne's speed stood out, but his hitting still needs improvement, while Nori's age and untapped power potential raised questions. However, these selections are not considered mistakes, but rather intriguing picks outside of expectations.

Notable players with high profiles, such as Jac Caglianone and Vance Honeycutt, were selected lower than expected, highlighting the industry's ability to evaluate players beyond hype. Meanwhile, Tommy White, also known as Tommy Tanks, the top freshman of 2022, was chosen by the Oakland Athletics at pick 40.

Looking ahead to Day 2, the list of best available players includes promising college bats. D'Marion Terrell, Connor Gatwood, Dax Whitney, and Carson Wiggins are among the top players who remain unselected. It is anticipated that these college players will be in high demand unless unforeseen circumstances come into play.

As the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft concludes, teams have strategically chosen players that align with their respective goals and needs. The draft continues to shape the future of these ball clubs as they strive to develop and cultivate the young talent they have brought onboard.