Travis Bazzana and Charlie Condon Projected as Top Picks in the 2024 MLB Draft
ICARO Media Group
In the upcoming 2024 MLB Draft, two standout prospects, Travis Bazzana and Charlie Condon, are predicted to be the top selections, potentially joining the Cleveland Guardians and Cincinnati Reds respectively. A mock draft and preview ahead of the July 14 event shed some light on the potential first-round picks.
Travis Bazzana, a second baseman from Oregon State, is currently ranked as the top draft prospect according to MLB.com. Bazzana's impressive statistics speak for themselves. With 87 hits, 28 home runs, 66 RBI, and 16 stolen bases, he boasted an impressive slash line of .407/.568/.911 and an OPS of 1.479. The Australian-born player excelled in the Cape Cod League, earning the MVP title.
While there are some concerns about his defensive capabilities, Bazzana's athleticism allows him to display good range and effectively turn double plays. If drafted as the top pick, he would make history as the first second baseman ever to be chosen at the No. 1 position. Currently, the Cleveland Guardians' only other prospect at second base is Khalil Watson, who is expected to join the team in 2025.
Moving on to the Cincinnati Reds, Charlie Condon, a versatile player who can play third base or outfield, is projected to be the second overall pick if Bazzana is not selected first. Condon, a right-handed hitter from Georgia, showcased his powerful batting skills with 100 hits, 37 home runs, 78 RBI, and a slash line of .433/.556/1.009. Although not the fastest on the field, Condon's size and athleticism compensate for it.
At 21 years old, Condon has proven his ability to excel in multiple positions on the field, including first base, outfield corners, and third base. While not suited for third base or center field due to his lack of speed, his solid arm strength enables him to provide average defense in left or right field.
The power displayed in Condon's college career, combined with his versatility on the field, make him an exciting prospect for any team seeking a game-changing player. If selected as the second overall pick, Condon would join the Cincinnati Reds organization, where he could potentially surpass the rankings of current prospects Cam Collier (ranked 84th) and Sal Stewart (top 100).
With the MLB Draft just around the corner, all eyes are on Travis Bazzana and Charlie Condon as they are poised to become the top picks of the 2024 draft. These talented prospects have displayed their impressive skills, and it will be intriguing to see how their careers unfold in the coming years.