The 2024 MLB draft concluded over the weekend, delivering a surprise for several prospects from Connecticut who heard their names called. The selections underscore the region's growing pipeline of talent and add to a series of recent draft successes.
Ryan Oshinskie, a right‑handed pitcher who starred at Fairfield Prep before a injury‑marred season at Brown University, was selected in the sixth round by the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite missing much of his college campaign, his high school pedigree and raw talent caught the attention of scouts, leading to his eventual pick.
Matt Scott, a left‑hander who capped his high school career at Joel Barlow High School and later contributed to the Georgia Bulldogs' College World Series run, was drafted in the eighth round by the Cleveland Guardians. Scott's blend of command and poise made him a coveted prospect heading into the draft.
Matthew Buccierro, a power‑hitting infielder from Ridgefield who led Fairfield University in home runs, RBIs, total bases and runs last season, was taken by the Chicago White Sox in the tenth round. His offensive production made him one of the most consistent bats in the Northeast this year.
A Fresh Wave of Husky Talent
Charlie West, a UConn ace who topped the Big East with 111 strikeouts and earned first‑team all‑conference honors, heard his name called in the seventh round by the Los Angeles Dodgers. West's dominance on the mound helped anchor the Huskies' rotation and marked a milestone in the program's pitching history.
The four Connecticut players join a distinguished list of draftees, extending the University of Connecticut's streak of 21 consecutive seasons with at least one player signed by a major league organization. Their selections reflect both individual achievement and the effectiveness of local development programs.
Beyond the personal accolades, the draft highlights the collaborative ecosystem that nurtures talent in the region, from high schools like Fairfield Prep and Joel Barlow to collegiate programs at Brown University, Fairfield University and the University of Connecticut. As these young athletes move to professional organizations, they carry with them the hopes of a baseball‑rich community.