Kirby Connell MLB Draft 2024: Top 5 landing spots for Tennessee star ft. Tampa Bay Rays

Kirby Connell has been a key member of Tennessee in its run to the national title this year. Now, after five seasons with the Vols, the pitcher will set his sights on the pro league.

Since Connell is coming off a World Series win with Tennessee, many teams are interested in him heading into the 2024 MLB draft.

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Five potential landing spots for Kirby Connell ahead of 2024 MLB draft

NCAA Baseball: College World Series-Tennessee v Texas A&M

#5 Tampa Bay Rays

The Tampa Bay Rays haven't had a great start to the 2024 MLB season. They sit fourth in the AL East with a 39-40 record.

With the MLB draft just around the corner, the Rays will want to boost their pitching department, and Kirby Connell would be an ideal addition to Kevin Cash's team. The lefty has grown into one of the most reliable pitchers for Tennessee and could provide some stability for Tampa Bay.

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#4 New York Yankees

The New York Yankees are flying high this season, leading the AL East with a 52-28 record. Aaron Boone's team has shown tremendous improvement following a horrific run in 2023.

Although they have been one of the most well-oiled teams this year, the Yankees have room for improvement. Adding a pitcher like Kirby Connell to their rotation would give the Yankees more depth as they plan a deep postseason run.

#3 Los Angeles Angels

The Los Angeles Angels are still reeling from losing Shoehei Ohtani in the offseason. LA is fourth in the AL West with a 31-46 record.

The Angels might look to draft a pitcher in the first round, and Connell is one of the most in-demand tossers in college baseball. There's a possibility for a long-term partnership between the two parties moving forward.

#2 Colorado Rockies

The Colorado Rockies have had a disappointing start to the 2024 season, sitting at the bottom of the NL West with a 27-51 record. Bud Black's team might already be eyeing the draft to reinforce his squad.

The Rockies have struggled with consistency, so Kirby Connell could solve most of their problems. The left-hander tends to keep things tight with the ball and also has a personality that Colorado fans could take a liking to.

#1 Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs are last in a competitive NL Central division. However, Craig Counsell's team is still in contention to win the divisional title, with only nine wins separating them from the leading Milwaukee Brewers.

The Cubs need a strong pitcher for their rotation, and Kirby Connell is an attractive option from the draft. The lefty could slot in well alongside Justin Steele, Coleton Brewer, Keegan Thompson and cC. to help Chicago take its pitching game to the next level.