Our second mock draft comes with plenty of changes, as we are reminded just how fluid the draft cycle can be when we are a few months out. Since our Mock Draft 1.0, Georgia’s Charlie Condon has put up video game numbers, with Oregon State’s Travis Bazzana not far behind. Prep prospects Konnor Griffin and Bryce Rainer continue to rise, with the White Sox hot on the trail of both.
A hamstring injury that held West Virginia infielder JJ Wetherholt out for more than a month may have hurt his stock some, but he is back and swinging it for the Mountaineers. Chase Burns and Hagen Smith have solidified themselves as the top two pitching prospects in the class, while East Carolina right-hander Trey Yesavage may be the only college arm within shouting distance — a testament to how well he has thrown this year.
1. Guardians: Charlie Condon – OF – Georgia
The Travis Bazzana vs. Charlie Condon debate will only continue to percolate, as both of college baseball’s top hitters continue to put up video game numbers. However, Condon is on a different level right now. He’s leading the nation in both home runs and batting average, and the underlying data is somehow even more impressive.
Organizationally, the Guardians have acknowledged a need for more impact, and it’s not like you’re giving up much in the feel to hit department. The only question is Condon’s long-term defensive home. The 6-foot-6 masher has played third base, first base and all three outfield spots this season.
2. Reds: Travis Bazzana – 2B – Oregon State
Long one of the best pure hitters in the country, Bazzana has added impact this season, needing only 21 games to match his 2023 home run total of 11. There’s a tangible leap in exit velocity to back the power outburst, and Bazzana is still the same polished hitter with an elite feel to hit and strong plate discipline. A gamer of all gamers with plus makeup, I find it hard to imagine that two teams could meet with Bazzana and not select him.
3. Rockies: Chase Burns – RHP – Wake Forest
The Rockies have leaned pitcher heavy over the last couple years, and there’s no reason to stop now with a guy like Burns on the board. The Rockies could consider Kurtz — whose power and hit combination at Coors already has me dreaming — but it may be too hard to pass on a college pitcher with frontline upside back to back years, and early returns from Chase Dollander have been encouraging.
