The San Francisco Giants had a unique and challenging experience during the 2024 MLB Draft. With only eight picks in the first 10 rounds and no second or third-round picks due to signing free agents Blake Snell and Matt Chapman, the Giants’ scouting department had to make the most of their limited opportunities.
Their first-round pick, James Tibbs, was a promising outfielder from Florida State University. However, they had to wait until the fourth round to make their next selection. Fortunately, they were able to secure Mississippi State outfielder Dakota Jordan, a player they had scouted extensively. Despite dropping to the fourth round, Jordan possesses raw athletic talent and has the potential to improve his hitting skills with the right guidance.
The Giants continued their focus on outfielders with their fourth-round pick, Jakob Christian from the University of San Diego. Christian, a powerful right-handed hitter, displayed impressive home run numbers in both junior college and collegiate leagues. Although he may eventually transition to a corner outfield or first base position, his athleticism sets him apart from other players of his size.
In the sixth round, the Giants selected Robert Hipwell, a third baseman from Santa Clara University. Hipwell had faced challenges in his collegiate career, including a suspension for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs. However, the Giants were impressed with his character and saw potential in his power-hitting abilities. As one of the most selective hitters in Division I, Hipwell’s ability to control the strike zone is an asset.
It is noteworthy that for the second consecutive year, the Giants focused on position players early in the draft. With their first four selections, they targeted power hitters, a characteristic that has been lacking in their system in recent years. The organization believes that these players have the potential to make an impact in the middle of the batting order.
As Day 2 of the draft progressed, the Giants added three college pitchers and an infielder to their roster. Zane Zielinski from the University of Illinois-Chicago stood out as a versatile and instinctive player with leadership qualities. The Giants also selected Andy Polanco, a high school player from the Dominican Republic, who possesses significant tools and room for physical development.
In the later rounds, the Giants added more intriguing hitters to their draft class. Zander Darby, a left-handed hitting third baseman from UC Santa Barbara, showed good plate discipline and potential for offensive and defensive growth. Jeremiah Jenkins, a first baseman from the University of Maine, displayed raw power in his collegiate career. Although his hitting mechanics are unconventional, he consistently makes solid contact with the ball.
On Day 3 of the draft, the Giants focused heavily on pitching, selecting hurlers in rounds 15 to 19. They concluded their draft by choosing Georgia catcher Fernando Gonzalez. The organization expects to sign the entire class, which was evenly divided between pitchers and position players.
Overall, despite the challenges presented by limited picks, the Giants’ scouting department navigated the draft successfully and landed promising players. With a focus on power hitters and a mix of talented pitchers and position players, the Giants aim to address their system’s lack of power. The organization is pleased with the outcome of the draft and looks forward to developing these players’ potential in the professional ranks.