Guardians pick Australian slugger Bazzana 1st overall

With the first pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, the Cleveland Guardians selected Travis Bazzana, a second baseman from Oregon State.

The left-handed-hitting Australian entered the draft as one of the top players available thanks to 60-grade tools in hit, run, and power. He shot up to the top of draft boards after winning the Cape Cod batting title and MVP in 2023. Scouts considered Bazzana to have one of the most advanced approaches of any hitter in the draft, which pairs well with his high baseball IQ and elite makeup.

Bio

Age: 21
Position: 2B
Height/Weight: 6-feet, 199 lbs
Bats/Throws: L/R
School: Oregon State
Pick value (1st): $10,570,600

Tools

• 65-grade overall rating
• Compact, strong swing
• Plenty of bat speed
• Legitimate speed threat

Why fans will love this player

• .902 OPS as a freshman
• Won Cape Cod MVP and batting title

Things he'll need to overcome

• Susceptible to offspeed on outer half
• Unsure defensively

Pre-draft projections

Take a look ...