Kevin Bazzell, the Nationals third spherical choose within the 2024 draft is among the most enjoyable sleepers within the system. He has a singular profile and skillset, which I imagine will finally assist him carve out an enormous league position. For me, that position might be a backup catcher that may additionally play numerous different totally different positions, akin to third base and nook outfield.
You don’t typically see that profile, largely as a result of the common catcher isn’t as athletic as Bazzell. He’s a mean runner, with stable quickness as effectively. Bazzell additionally performed numerous outfield and third base in faculty, spending numerous time on the sizzling nook particularly. That offers him a singular versatility for a catcher.
Bazzell’s different standout trait is his hit device. He walked greater than he struck out at Texas Tech attributable to his hit device and above common plate self-discipline. MLB pipeline gave his hit device a 60 grade, which makes it a plus attribute. He had a 92% contact price on fastballs in school, a very elite mark. This type of manufacturing continued into Low-A, the place he as soon as once more walked greater than he struck out, outproducing extra extremely touted catching prospect Caleb Lomavita.
Bazzell doesn’t have a ton of energy, solely hitting 6 bombs in his ultimate faculty season and posting mediocre exit velocities. That’s alright attributable to his strategy and hit device. The facility additionally is just not an entire zero, so he ought to be capable to run into sufficient pitches to maintain pitchers trustworthy. He has 12-15 homer upside with full season reps.
Bazzell’s protection behind the plate will get combined opinions. Pipeline is optimistic about it, citing his athleticism and good arm power. Nonetheless, different scouts say the protection continues to be very a lot a piece in progress regardless of his instruments. It’s value mentioning that he’s not very skilled behind the plate. Final season was the primary time he was a full time catcher on the faculty degree.
Bazzell’s upside may look one thing like what Connor Wong of the Pink Sox. Wong is primarily a catcher, however has performed video games at first base, second base, third base and left subject in his profession. Whereas Wong performs these positions sparingly, I can see Bazzell taking part in third on a semi-regular foundation.
Kevin Bazzell is my favourite sleeper prospect within the group. Whereas he won’t ever be a star, he’s going to be an impactful piece with versatility and upside. I see Bazzell as a backup catcher, who additionally sees the sector extra attributable to his capacity to play different positions. Largely a catcher, however can fill in at numerous spots in a pinch. Bazzell ought to begin the season at Excessive-A Wilmington, having seemed superb in his small pattern at Low-A Fredericksburg. He’s actually a enjoyable participant and one to observe.
