MLB insider lists Orioles as one of biggest winners of Draft Day 1

With the 2024 MLB Draft nearly complete, a plethora of outlets have started grading picks across the board. MLB insiders have collectively raved about the Guardians taking infielder Travis Bazzana first overall, and the consensus seems to be that the Cardinals got a steal with infielder JJ Wetherholt sliding to the 7th overall pick.

Jim Bowden of The Athletic loved what the Orioles did, noting each of their day 1 picks in his most recent column. The Orioles went out on a limb and selected UNC outfielder Vance Honeycutt with the 22nd overall pick.

Honeycutt is lauded as having some of the best raw tools in the entire draft class. He twice won the ACC defensive player of the year award, in part thanks to his elite speed and cannon arm. He also has huge potential at the plate, showcasing his massive raw power with a school-record 28 home runs in 2024.

Honeycutt is a bit of a risky pick for the Orioles because he has major holes in his swing and has struck out more than you'd like to see for a first rounder. However, the Orioles have done wonders with some of their recent draft picks. If Honeycutt can hit in professional ball, this will be a massive win for the O's.

Orioles balance ceiling and floor with first two draft picks

Bowden also loved that shortstop Griff O'Ferrall fell to the Orioles at pick number 32. O'Ferrall is a defense-first player but his skill set there is unmatched. The righty won a Gold Glove for the Cavaliers, as well as the Brooks Wallace Award in 2024 which is presented to the most outstanding shortstop in college baseball.

O'Ferrall hit well in his final year at Virginia and has been a good contact hitter throughout his collegiate career. Scouts question whether his hit tool will translate well to the upper minors but his strong defense gives him a uniquely high floor.

In addition to Honeycutt and O'Ferrall, the Orioles also selected Univ. of Virginia catcher Ethan Anderson in the second round on Sunday night. Anderson posted a 1.118 OPS for the Cavaliers in 2024, launching 15 homers and providing strong defense behind the plate.

The Orioles have superstar Adley Rutschman behind the plate in Baltimore and the fast-rising Samuel Basallo tearing up the minors but if Anderson can hit, the O's will find a way to keep him moving up in the system.