The New York Yankees have chosen Bryce Cunningham, a right-handed pitcher from Vanderbilt University, in the second round of the 2024 MLB Draft, selecting him with the 53rd overall pick.
Cunningham’s selection follows a standout junior season with the Commodores, highlighted by notable achievements such as earning SEC Pitcher of the Week honors in early April. His performance against Florida included six shutout innings, and he also impressed with a 10-strikeout game against top-ranked Tennessee in mid-May.
Throughout the season, Cunningham compiled a 7-4 record and maintained a 4.36 ERA across 16 starts, pitching a total of 84.2 innings while allowing 41 earned runs. His efforts on the mound saw him strike out 96 batters and walk 34.
Over his collegiate career spanning three seasons at Vanderbilt, Cunningham amassed an 11-8 record with a cumulative 4.95 ERA in 46 appearances, including 26 starts. He recorded a total of 168 strikeouts over 160.0 innings pitched, along with 71 walks.
Cunningham’s improvement during his junior campaign significantly bolstered his draft stock, catching the attention of MLB Draft analysts who praised his command of multiple pitches and the effectiveness of his fastball, which reaches velocities in the mid-90s and peaks at 97 mph. According to evaluations by MLB.com, Cunningham’s ability to locate his fastball and complement it with a standout changeup, featuring a hard upper-80s speed and notable movement, enhances his potential as a high-caliber prospect. His mid-80s slider serves as a reliable third offering, further solidifying his repertoire.
Analysts highlight Cunningham’s enhanced physical conditioning and athletic prowess, which have contributed to his improved consistency in delivery and ability to sustain performance deep into games. His refined pitching mechanics and increased strike-throwing proficiency are seen as pivotal factors in his projection as a potential second or third starter in a Major League rotation. The prospect of further development in his slider is viewed as a pathway to unlocking even greater potential in his game.
Bryce Cunningham’s selection by the New York Yankees represents a culmination of his collegiate achievements and growth as a pitcher. With his diverse skill set and demonstrated ability to perform under pressure, Cunningham stands poised to make significant strides as he embarks on the next chapter of his baseball career in professional ranks.
