Fantasy Baseball Mock Draft: Bryce Miller, Byron Buxton, Jose Alvarado, Nelson Velasquez (2024)

My task in these upcoming articles is to take part in quick mock drafts using the FantasyPros Mock Draft Simulator. I will draft from the front, middle and back of the draft, discussing the results and other potential picks available in that part.

In the end, remember these are just mock drafts and should be used to help build a better player pool concept. To realize when to target pitchers, certain hitting positions or statistics, and more. Below we dive into a full notable picks. Here’s the full mock draft.

Fantasy Baseball Mock Draft: Early Pick (2024)

Results

The lineup for this 12-team draft is 2 C, 1B, 2B, 3B, SS, CI, MI, 5 OF, UTIL, 8 P and 4 BN, conducted using FanasyPros Draft Simulator.

19.2: Bryce Miller (SP – SEA)

Miller put together a lovely rookie season with a 4.32 ERA and 17.3% K-BB. The strikeouts could increase this year by adding a splitter, which would be a plus. If he can fine-tune his ERA a bit to go with an already strong WHIP, then a breakout 2024 could be on the horizon for Miller.

Others Considered: Bryan Woo (SP – SEA)

20.11: Byron Buxton (DH – MIN)

We all know the risks involved with drafting Buxton. He has not proven the ability to stay healthy throughout his career, but this season, we don’t have to pay a premium to draft Buxton. He has 30 home run upside with a few steals, which is worth the gamble with an ADP after 200. If he gets hurt, he’s a much easier drop than in years past.

Others Considered: N/A

21.2: Jose Alvarado (RP – PHI)

Alvarado was the best reliever for the Phillies this past season before he was injured. He returned and looked great by the end of the season. For now, he’s the closer in Philadelphia, and even if they make another roster move at closer, Alvarado should still have plenty of fantasy value this season.

Others Considered: Brayan Bello (SP – BOS)

22.11: Nelson Velasquez (OF – KC)

Velasquez has light tower power and now appears to have regular playing time locked in with the Royals. He finished this past season with 17 home runs; an entire season could result in 30+ home runs. If he does not produce or loses playing time, he’s an easy drop, but the risk is worth the reward at his current ADP.

Others Considered: N/A