The Nationals 2024 third round pick offers a unique profile and fun upside
Kevin Bazzell, the Nationals third round pick in the 2024 draft is one of the most fun sleepers in the system. He has a unique profile and skillset, which I believe will eventually help him carve out a big league role. For me, that role will be a backup catcher that can also play a number of other different positions, such as third base and corner outfield.
You don’t often see that profile, mostly because the average catcher isn’t as athletic as Bazzell. He is an average runner, with solid quickness as well. Bazzell also played a lot of outfield and third base in college, spending a lot of time at the hot corner in particular. That gives him a unique versatility for a catcher.
Bazzell’s other standout trait is his hit tool. He walked more than he struck out at Texas Tech due to his hit tool and above average plate discipline. MLB pipeline gave his hit tool a 60 grade, which makes it a plus attribute. He had a 92% contact rate on fastballs at college, a truly elite mark. This kind of production continued into Low-A, where he once again walked more than he struck out, outproducing more highly touted catching prospect Caleb Lomavita.
Bazzell doesn’t have a ton of power, only hitting 6 bombs in his final college season and posting mediocre exit velocities. That is alright due to his approach and hit tool. The power also is not a complete zero, so he should be able to run into enough pitches to keep pitchers honest. He has 12-15 homer upside with full season reps.
Bazzell’s defense behind the plate gets mixed reviews. Pipeline is optimistic about it, citing his athleticism and good arm strength. However, other scouts say the defense is still very much a work in progress despite his tools. It is worth mentioning that he is not very experienced behind the plate. Last season was the first time he was a full time catcher at the college level.
Bazzell’s upside could look something like what Connor Wong of the Red Sox. Wong is primarily a catcher, but has played games at first base, second base, third base and left field in his career. While Wong plays those positions sparingly, I can see Bazzell playing third on a semi-regular basis.
Kevin Bazzell is my favorite sleeper prospect in the organization. While he will never be a star, he is going to be an impactful piece with versatility and upside. I see Bazzell as a backup catcher, who also sees the field more due to his ability to play other positions. Mostly a catcher, but can fill in at a number of spots in a pinch. Bazzell should start the season at High-A Wilmington, having looked very good in his small sample at Low-A Fredericksburg. He is certainly a fun player and one to watch.