Is Charlie Condon, the Rockies’ rising star, poised to join the elite ranks of the 2024 draft class? The pressure is on, but this young talent isn’t backing down.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Charlie Condon finds himself in the company of baseball’s brightest prospects, and he’s determined not to fade into the background. As the third overall pick in the 2024 draft, Condon has his sights set on a major league debut this season—a goal he believes is well within reach. But here’s where it gets controversial: While some see his journey as a smooth ascent, others question whether his injury-plagued past could delay his rise to stardom.
‘I think about it a lot,’ Condon admitted during his first big-league camp, his voice calm but resolute. ‘But it’s not my main focus. I’m here to play the best baseball I can. Every player in this locker room—and those in the minor league locker down the hall—wants to make it to Denver and help the Rockies win.’
Condon’s peers from the 2024 draft class are already making waves. Take Travis Bazzana, the No. 1 overall pick, who’s on the cusp of his major league debut despite battling injuries last season. Or Chase Burns, the Reds’ second overall pick, who’s vying for a spot in Cincinnati’s starting rotation. And let’s not forget Nick Kurtz, the Athletics’ fourth pick, who’s already a frontrunner for American League Rookie of the Year. And this is the part most people miss: While some prospects soar, others face setbacks. Jac Caglianone, the Royals’ sixth pick, struggled after a hot start, while Konnor Griffin, the Pirates’ ninth pick, is being hailed as a generational talent at just 19 years old.
Condon’s own path hasn’t been without hurdles. Injuries sidelined him early in his career, and his 2024 season at High-A Spokane was cut short after just 35 games due to a left-hand injury. Last year, a broken wrist during minor league spring training forced him to miss all of April. Yet, he persevered, hitting .235 with 11 home runs in 35 games for Double-A Hartford after his return.
‘My first year in pro ball wasn’t what I expected,’ Condon reflected. ‘I was excited to show my true potential last year, but the broken wrist was a huge setback. It was a test of patience and resilience.’
Here’s the bold question: Can Condon overcome these challenges and join the ranks of his draft classmates in the majors this season? While a debut in the first half seems unlikely, his determination and talent suggest it’s only a matter of time. As he steps into his first big-league camp, Condon is clear: ‘I have faith in my abilities. Now it’s time to show what I can do.’
What do you think? Is Charlie Condon ready to shine, or will his injuries hold him back? Let us know in the comments below. And if you’re craving more Rockies insights, sign up for the Rockies Insider to stay ahead of the game. (https://myaccount.denverpost.com/dp/preference)
