Vance Honeycutt, the 22nd overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, has been elevated to the Double-A Chesapeake Baysox, the Baltimore Orioles announced Tuesday. The move follows a rapid ascent through the Orioles' farm system, where the outfielder combined elite defense with a potent bat.
Honeycutt leaves the University of North Carolina after a college career that placed him among the most decorated players in recent memory. He earned consecutive ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2023 and 2024, and his combination of power and speed made him the only Power Five conference athlete to finish with more than 60 home runs and 70 stolen bases.
A Milestone in a Rapid Rise
At UNC, he helped the Tar Heels secure their 12th College World Series appearance with a walk‑off hit against Virginia, a moment that underscored his clutch pedigree. His collegiate statistics included a career‑best .644 on‑base percentage, 10 home runs and 31 runs batted in for the High‑A Frederick Keys, where he also contributed to a first‑half division title.
The promotion to Double-A represents a significant milestone, moving him from High‑A Frederick to the Baysox where he will face a higher caliber of competition. Early performances in Spring Training hinted at his readiness, and the organization believes his defensive instincts and power tool set will translate well to the Eastern League.
Beyond the numbers, Honeycutt's journey reflects a broader narrative of perseverance and development. From his early days in High‑A Aberdeen to his recent stint with the Aberdeen Ironbirds, each step has been marked by incremental growth, and the Orioles are confident that his next challenge will further refine his skills.