Travis Bazzana, the top selection in the MLB draft from Oregon State, finalized his inaugural professional contract with the Cleveland Guardians on Friday.
According to insider information, Bazzana agreed to terms amounting to $8.95 million at Progressive Field, although the exact financial details of the deal were not disclosed publicly. The MLB’s designated value for the first pick stood at $10.57 million, yet Bazzana, a 21-year-old second baseman hailing from Australia, expressed his understanding that he would not receive the full slot money.
“My priority was to join a team where I could flourish, and the approach the Guardians take to the game resonated with me,” said Bazzana, standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 199 pounds. “My agents recognized my desire to be part of the Guardians organization.
The left-handed batter is slated to commence his minor league journey with the Class-A Lake County squad, with his debut potentially happening later this month at Eastlake, Ohio’s stadium, a short distance from downtown Cleveland.
On the following day, Bazzana is scheduled to participate in batting practice with the Guardians ahead of their matchup against San Diego. As the franchise’s inaugural top overall pick and the first second baseman to earn such an honor in MLB history, Bazzana expressed excitement about meeting Cleveland’s six-time All-Star third baseman, José Ramírez.
“I’ve been watching José Ramírez highlights repeatedly, and now I’ll get to meet him and say hello,” Bazzana remarked. “That’s when it starts to feel real.”
During his tenure at Oregon State, Bazzana amassed impressive statistics, boasting a .360 batting average along with 45 home runs and 165 RBIs over three seasons. In his most recent season, he maintained a .407 batting average, contributing 28 home runs and 66 RBIs.
“I hope sports enthusiasts in Australia will become Guardians fans and follow Major League Baseball,” he added. “It’s thrilling to think that the next Travis Bazzana could be watching my journey from home.”
Bazzana’s signing marks a significant milestone in his career, transitioning from collegiate stardom to the professional ranks. His journey with the Guardians promises to be closely monitored not only by fans in Cleveland but also by baseball enthusiasts globally, eager to witness the development of a promising young talent on the diamond.
