Uncover the Hidden Gems of the 2024 Rule 5 Draft

First Round

Chicago White Sox (37) - Shane Smith, RHP from the Milwaukee Brewers. After Tommy John surgery in his draft year, Smith made a comeback. His velocity increased in 2023 but dipped back in 2024. He's added sliders and cutters to his pitch mix. His curveball performance has been inconsistent, and he's likely to be a middle reliever with two plus pitches.

Colorado Rockies (39) - Pass. No player was selected in this round.

Miami Marlins (39) - Liam Hicks, C from the Detroit Tigers. A 2021 ninth-round pick, Hicks has a unique contact ability but lacks power. His defense has been a struggle, and he projects as a team's third catcher long-term.

Los Angeles Angels (39) - Garrett McDaniels, LHP from the Los Angeles Dodgers. A 2022 undrafted free agent, McDaniels had a breakout year in 2024. He works downhill with a sinker and added a mid-80s slider. He's essentially trying to make the leap from High-A to the big leagues.

Athletics (37) - Noah Murdock, RHP from the Kansas City Royals. A 6-foot-8 right-hander, Murdock transitioned to relief in 2023. His velocity is good, but he has walk issues. His pitches have good movement, and he'll compete for a bullpen spot.

Second Round

Atlanta Braves (36) - Christian Cairo, SS from the Cleveland Guardians. The son of a 17-year big league veteran, Cairo is a skilled shortstop defender. He lacks prototypical arm strength but has good footwork and feel for the zone. He'll compete for an Opening Day roster spot.

Most of the other clubs passed in the second round, indicating that the talent pool in this round was not as strong as in the first.