There were some quality players selected in the first round of the 2002 MLB draft, especially on the pitching side of things.
In the amateur MLB draft each year there are gems and busts. Players who don’t sign and players who don’t pan out. There are also players who live up to and exceed their expectations. The 2002 draft featured several pitchers who turned into legit aces, some of which are still contributing.
Including sandwich picks there were 41 selections made in the first round with twenty-two of them being pitchers. All pitchers were signed and twelve of them appeared in the big leagues. Of the ones who signed, they made the most of their opportunities.
More from MLB News
- MLB Power Rankings: Atlanta Braves still on top with major shifting below them
- Caesars MLB Promo Code: Two Shots at Picking the World Series Winner!
- MLB Power Rankings: Atlanta Braves still on top amid a big shake-up in top 10
- DraftKings MLB Promo: Bet $5 on an Anytime Home Run, Win $150 Bonus GUARANTEED
- MLB Power Rankings: After MLB trade deadline, gap is closing on Atlanta Braves
In the past twenty years, there hasn’t been a first-round draft class which has accumulated as many wins like this one.
Together they may only have one Cy Young Award, but they have four World Series rings and a perfect game to their name, as well as a combined 957 wins under their belt…..and still counting.
The pitching depth was so deep, two pitchers from the same high school rotation were drafted within the fifth-teen picks of one another in the first round.
There were some great names picked outside the first round as well. Jon Lester, 2nd round-190 wins. Charlie Morton, 3rd round-91 wins, and Jason Hammel, 10th round-96 wins.
Now a look at those drafted in the first round of the 2002 draft.