Cobb Reporter

Seventeen days before the Guardians exercise the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 Draft, they have disclosed little about their intentions. Their top four candidates align with MLB Pipeline's new Draft Top 250 list: Oregon State second baseman Travis Bazzana, Georgia outfielder/third baseman Charlie Condon, Florida first baseman/left-hander Jac Caglianone, and West Virginia middle infielder JJ Wetherholt. Cleveland is evaluating both talent and signability, considering their record bonus pool of $18,334,000 and an unprecedented allotment for the No. 1 choice at $10,570,600.

"If Bazzana doesn't go No. 1," analysts suggest he might fall to the Athletics at No. 4 with a pick value of $8,370,800. Condon and Caglianone are expected to be picked by the Reds at No. 2 ($9,785,000) and Rockies at No. 3 ($9,070,800), respectively. This scenario could make Bazzana more likely to accept a bonus in the $8.5 million-to-8.75 million range from Cleveland.

Wetherholt missed half the season due to a recurring hamstring injury but remains one of the best pure hitters available and is considered more athletic than Bazzana despite offering less power. His potential landing spots include the White Sox at No. 5 ($7,763,700) or possibly within the back half of the top ten picks.

For now—subject to change in the next two weeks—the Guardians' decision appears to come down to Bazzana versus Wetherholt. Caglianone is also being seriously considered by Cleveland more than previously realized while Condon remains fourth if he demands full slot value.

On a recent Pipeline Podcast episode discussing percentage chances for each candidate for Cleveland's pick: "I'd revise mine like this: Bazzana 35 percent, Wetherholt 30 percent, Caglianone 20 percent, Condon 10 percent," with other candidates like Wake Forest right-hander Chase Burns and Mississippi high school shortstop/outfielder Konnor Griffin making up a combined five percent.

Other teams are also making strategic decisions:

- The Reds are focusing on players such as Caglianone ahead of Condon.

- The Rockies would not pass on either Condon or Caglianone.

- If Bazzana is available after Cleveland’s pick, he might be chosen by Oakland.

- The White Sox are deciding between Griffin and Wetherholt.

- The Royals’ new scouting director has shown an affinity for left-handers like Hagen Smith.

- The Cardinals may opt for potential frontline starters like Smith or Burns.

- Despite buzz around saving money with their pick, it is uncertain if Angels will pass on top prospects like Wetherholt or Smith.

Teams continue to strategize based on available talent and financial considerations as they prepare for selections beyond these top choices.

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