How many rounds are there in the 2024 MLB draft? How many players are selected?

The MLB Draft is a 20-round event that goes down in July, right in the middle of the season. The lucky 614 players drafted are then shipped off to their new minor league teams.

Back in the day, the draft was a marathon. Up until 2019, it had up to 40 rounds, and there were years when teams just kept picking until they had enough. In 1965, for example, there were a whopping 72 rounds with 824 players selected! Legends like Mike Piazza, picked in the 62nd round in 1988, and Keith Hernandez, a 42nd-round pick in 1971, prove that you can find stars at any stage.

Key Dates for the 2024 Draft

Stars can emerge from anywhere in the draft. Just look at Albert Pujols, who was snagged in the 13th round in 1999 and went on to become one of the greatest hitters ever. Or John Smoltz, picked in the 22nd round before shining with the Braves and Red Sox.

2024 MLB Draft 1st Round Order

For the first time ever, the Cleveland Guardians have the first pick. Here’s a look at the full draft order for the first round:

Keep an eye on this year’s draft – you never know where the next superstar will come from!