UPDATE: In a dramatic finish to the MLB draft signing period, only two of the top 315 players selected failed to reach agreements by the Monday deadline. Notably, Clemson outfielder Cam Cannarella has officially signed with the Miami Marlins, securing a signing bonus of $2,277,425—just above the slot value of $2,276,700.
The biggest name left unsigned is right-handed pitcher Angel Cervantes, picked 50th overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates. Cervantes has declared his intention to attend UCLA instead of joining the professional ranks. As a result, the Pirates will receive an extra draft pick next year, specifically the 51st overall selection.
Another player, outfielder Mason Ligenza, chosen 195th by the Los Angeles Dodgers, also did not sign and will instead pursue his education at the University of Pittsburgh. This year’s draft regulations allowed players who have not exhausted their college eligibility to sign until a week before the next draft.
In contrast, several top selections have secured lucrative contracts. Shortstop Eli Willits, picked first overall by Washington, signed a staggering deal worth $8.2 million. The Los Angeles Angels successfully inked UC Santa Barbara right-hander Tyler Bremner for a generous $7,689,525, while LSU left-hander Kade Anderson, the third pick, agreed with Seattle for $8.8 million.
Additionally, Ethan Holliday, an infielder from Stillwater High School and brother of MLB player Jackson Holliday, signed with Colorado for $9 million.
As the dust settles on this year’s draft, no team exceeded its signing bonus pool by more than 5%, avoiding penalties that could have cost them a first-round pick in the 2024 draft. A total of 20 teams went over their pools by 5% or less, with 12 teams hitting that exact mark.
This year’s draft has proven to be a crucial moment for many young athletes, shaping their futures in the world of baseball. The next significant event will be the 2024 MLB draft, where teams will look to capitalize on the talent that remains available.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
