Rangers Projected to Draft Texas Tech Star

The Texas Rangers have had success with their previous draft pick from Texas Tech at third base, and there’s speculation about their next potential pick. According to MLB Pipeline’s 2024 Draft Top 100 and its initial first-round mock draft, the reigning World Series champions, with the last pick in the first round, are expected to choose a local talent—Texas Tech’s Kevin Bazzell. Bazzell, who hails from Rockwall, located approximately 45 miles east of Arlington, is projected to be the Rangers’ selection.

The Rangers previously drafted Josh Jung from Texas Tech in the first round of the 2019 draft, and he quickly became an All-Star in his rookie year in 2023.

Bazzell, who transitioned from third base to catcher in high school before returning to third at Texas Tech, is now back behind the plate. MLB.com’s prospect rankings highlight Bazzell’s impressive bat and successful shift to catching during his senior year in Texas in 2021. Despite going undrafted, he chose Dallas Baptist before transferring to Texas Tech. After sitting out the 2022 season due to the transfer, Bazzell played as a redshirt freshman at third base. Following a teammate’s transfer to Arkansas, Bazzell has resumed his role as catcher for the Red Raiders and is poised to potentially enter the first round with a strong spring performance.

Bazzell’s scouting report emphasizes his controlled right-handed stroke, disciplined approach covering all fields, and exceptional contact rate. In 2023, he made contact with fastballs 92 percent of the time he swung at them. While he hits with power on a low trajectory, it is projected that he could achieve more home runs per season and additional power if he adjusts his swing to lift pitches more frequently. Bazzell is regarded as an underrated athlete with average speed that may diminish over time as he spends more time behind the plate. However, he moves well as a catcher, has the potential to develop into at least an average receiver with experience, and possesses average to solid arm strength, amplified by a quick release and accurate throws. Bazzell also demonstrated versatility by filling in at various infield and outfield corner positions.

The 2024 MLB Draft is scheduled to take place in Arlington in July during All-Star Week.