The MLB Draft is a chaotic and emotional experience for players, and the Cleveland Guardians' draft-day stories are no exception. From fake contract signings to unexpected picks, these players' journeys to the big leagues are filled with unique and memorable moments.
One player, Slade Cecconi, recalled a bizarre draft experience during the pandemic. He was drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 33rd round, and the process was entirely remote. Cecconi took about 50 video calls with teams, with some considering him a first-rounder and others in the late rounds. The Diamondbacks eventually selected him, and he signed his contract electronically, a far cry from the usual in-person ceremonies. His mom even had him sign a printed copy of the contract with a pen, adding a touch of normalcy to the surreal moment.
Another player, Austin Hedges, was convinced he would be a first-rounder in 2011, but he was selected by the San Diego Padres in the second round. His high school team banquet coincided with the draft, and he arrived to find everyone looking at him as if he were a doctor leaving an operating room. The next day, he was drafted, and his mom woke him up to tell him the news. He planned to attend UCLA unless the Padres offered him $2 million, which they did, about seven times the slot value.
Erik Sabrowski, a reliever, had a similar experience. He was drafted by the San Diego Padres in the 14th round in 2018, and he watched the draft coverage with his wife, who shouted his name when it was announced. He started as a hitter at Cisco College and transferred to Cloud County Community College, where he pitched in front of a small crowd of players' girlfriends and parents. The draft day was a life-changing moment, and he was thrilled to be drafted.
Tim Herrin, another reliever, was drafted in the 29th round in 2018. He was socializing with friends and family at his brother's high school graduation party when he received a text from his agent confirming Cleveland's interest. He signed a $100,000 bonus and joined the team, turning his brother's party into a dual celebration.
Shawn Armstrong, a pitcher, was projected to go in the first 10 rounds in 2011 but turned down offers to return to East Carolina for his senior season. He was drafted by Cleveland in the 18th round and signed with them despite a lower offer than he requested. He was optioned 21 times, and his journey to the big leagues was an unlikely one.
Steven Kwan, a fifth-round pick from Oregon State, was in disbelief when Cleveland selected him. He had been told to expect a team in the 10-12 range, but his agent called with a list of teams interested, including Cleveland. The deprecator in him was surprised, but the matter-of-fact nature of the announcement made it all the more special.
Joey Cantillo, a 16th-round pick, was disappointed in his senior season but was selected by the Padres. He had every intention of attending the University of Kentucky but was offered a signing bonus north of $300,000, changing his path.
Parker Messick, a second-round pick in 2022, had a unique draft experience. He laid out caps for each team at his grandparents' house and waited for the Guardians to make their pick. His friends and relatives tried to guess which hat he would wear, and the anticipation built. Four years later, he's an All-Star, proving that draft day can be a turning point in a player's career.
Hoskins, a player who went undrafted in 2014, was surprised when the Philadelphia Phillies called him in the fifth round. He never heard from them during the scouting process, and the Phillies sent him to their Florida complex before assigning him to Low-A Williamsport. The experience was thrilling, and he was eager to leave for his new team.
Stephen Vogt, an undrafted senior prospect in 2007, was thrilled when the Tampa Bay Rays selected him in the 12th round. He was the 365th player chosen, and the moment he saw his name pop up, he was filled with excitement and relief. The draft is a long-awaited process, and seeing your name is a special and rewarding experience.
Matt Festa, a player who started at Dominican University, had a unique journey. He emailed every Division II school he could find, seeking an opportunity, and received interest from two rivals. He was selected by the Mariners in the seventh round in 2016, and his mom sent him a picture on the 10th anniversary of the day, reminding him that scouts can find players anywhere.
Kahlil Watson, a first-rounder in 2021, reserved a spot at a golf club in Raleigh, N.C., for the draft. He had been projected to go high, and the Miami Marlins ultimately selected him. He committed to NC State and gained exposure by moving to Wake Forest, N.C. The draft day was a turning point, and he felt grateful for the opportunity.
