Top 5 ACC players who could go big in 2024 MLB Draft ft. Chase Burns
The ACC is a hotbed for MLB draft talent and is regularly among the best represented in the draft. An array of ACC players could go big in the upcoming draft.
Let's take a look at these players and assess their chances of making a splash in the MLB.
Five ACC players who could go big in 2024 MLB Draft
#5. Seaver King, Utility, Wake Forest
Seaver King is one of the best utility players in the country, and he was a key part of Wake Forest in 2024. King's natural position is shortstop, but he was utilized at third base, center field, and shortstop throughout the season.
King has the natural ability to take the league by storm once given the chance. His ultra-aggressive approach should be harnessed by a decent coaching tandem. His 16 home runs and .577 slugging are something that should catch the eye of talent evaluators.
MLB.com projects Seaver King to be selected with the 17th pick of the 2024 MLB draft.
#4. Cam Smith, Third baseman, Florida State
Cam Smith was a major contributor to the Florida State Seminoles' deep College World Series run. The third baseman abandoned his aggressive batting approach in favor of a more measured style.
Smith's arm talent is undeniable, and his penchant for improving in big games is a skill that can't be taught. In his sophomore season, Smith averaged .387 and hit 16 home runs.
MLB.com projects Cam Smith to be selected with the 14th pick of the 2024 MLB draft.
#3. James Tibbs, Outfielder, Florida State
James Tibbs is another member of the Florida State Seminoles that could go big in the upcoming draft. Tibbs has an impressive floor and the potential to be a long-term threat at first base in an MLB franchise.
Tibbs takes a measured approach to baseball but can turn a game upside down. In 2024, he averaged .362 and hit 25 home runs.
MLB.com projects James Tibbs to be selected with the 12th pick of the 2024 MLB draft.
#2. Nick Kurtz, First baseman, Wake Forest
Nick Kurtz dominated the collegiate game with his picturesque left-handed swing built for maximum damage. Kurtz was a walking highlight reel in his junior year.
Kurtz led Wake Forest in home runs with 22 homers, recorded 53 hits and 57 RBIs, amassed multi-hit games and led the program with a .531 on-base percentage. He was named to the 2024 ACC All-Tournament for his efforts.
MLB.com projects Nick Kurtz to be selected with the 7th pick of the 2024 MLB draft.
#1. Chase Burns, Pitcher, Wake Forest
Chase Burns is the most hyped player from the ACC heading into the draft, and for good reason. Burns can toss a fastball at 101mph, and he has one of the best 70-grade sliders around.
Burns has all the makings of a right-handed pitcher that will dominate the Major Leagues in a few seasons. He broke the Wake Forest single-season strikeouts record in 2024 and was named 2024 ACC Pitcher of the Year.
MLB.com projects Chase Burns to be selected with the 6th pick of the 2024 MLB draft.