On Sunday, OSU’s superstar Travis Bazzana added another win to his top resume as he became the no. 1 overall pick in the 2024 MLB draft.
The Cleveland Guardians took Bazanna with the first pick in the 2024 Major League Baseball Draft.
“I know (Cleveland) just values the way I have something I’m playing for. I have a passion,” Bazzana said.
“I’m playing for something big; I care about this game. I love this game. They know that there’s not going to be quit in me. There’s not going to be complacency. They’re gonna get somebody that is striving to win — striving to win a World Series.
“I’m a competitor and I’m always going to go out and put the team in the best position to win. They love that I’m competitive.”
The signing bonus slot value for the No. 1 overall pick is $10,570,600.
“His work ethic, his passions, his ability to be one of the most special guys in the clubhouse at all times,” Oregon State coach Mitch Canham said of why he believes Bazzana will succeed at the big-league level.
“I already know people are gonna go to him for advice — for on the field and off the field stuff. He’s going to make great relationships at each affiliate he’s with. Never a worry about him in the clubhouse. That’s one of the things that we’re going to miss: his energy and how he uplifts others and holds others accountable.”
Throughout the 2024 season, Bazzana slashed .407/.568/.911 with 28 home runs, 66 RBI, 16 doubles, and 16 stolen bases in 60 games. He set single-season school records for runs, home runs, and slugging percentage, and tied the OSU single-season record with 74 walks.
“We’ve had a brief conversation about position,” Bazzana said.
“I think they believe that I’m gonna be a good infielder and probably start my journey at second base. But they all believe in my athleticism and think there might be some versatility options as I move. … They believe in me on that front, and they also think that there’s opportunities to play other positions. They believe in their player development and I do to.”