In a groundbreaking moment for Australian sports, Travis Bazzana has become an instant millionaire after being selected as the No.1 pick in the Major League Baseball (MLB) draft. The 21-year-old left-handed batter from Sydney, who has shined at the University of Oregon, is the first Australian player to be taken in the first round of the draft.
Bazzana was picked up by the Cleveland Guardians, securing a deal that could earn him up to $15 million. The selection marks a historic milestone for Australian baseball, highlighting Bazzana’s exceptional talent and potential impact on the sport.
“It means a lot. It is hard to put into words but it means everything. I’m just stoked and I’m really happy to be with the people I’m with right now,” Bazzana expressed during a live interview after his selection was announced. “I see a lot of opportunities to make an impact on a lot of baseball players and people back home and hopefully change the narrative for baseball. But just giving belief to players back home that they can do great things in the US and pursue a Major League dream and hopefully this is a step towards that.”
Bazzana joins a select group of 38 Australians who have made it to the MLB, with a significant portion of them being pitchers. As a second baseman and hitter, Bazzana is classified as an “everyday player,” someone who can be relied upon to perform consistently game after game.
The Cleveland Guardians had the top pick for the first time since the draft’s inception in 1965 and chose Bazzana following his standout career at Oregon State. During his time with the Oregon State Beavers, Bazzana set school records in home runs, stolen bases, runs scored, doubles, hits, and walks, showcasing his all-around abilities and solidifying his status as a top prospect.
Despite the excitement surrounding his selection, it remains uncertain whether Bazzana will immediately join the MLB lineup. New draftees often start in the minor league system, where they play at lower levels and gradually move up until they are called up to the Major League team.
Regardless of the initial steps in his professional career, Bazzana’s historic selection as the No.1 pick is a testament to his hard work, skill, and the bright future ahead. His journey will undoubtedly inspire many young baseball players in Australia, providing a beacon of hope that they too can achieve their dreams on the global stage.
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