As the summer circuit wrapped, and the scouting community began compiling its notes, the ‘24 draft class coming out of the state of New Jersey appeared less “in your face” that its most recent predecessors. 2023 saw ultra projectable right-hander, Steven Echavarria (Athletics, 3rd round) sign the second highest prep RHP bonus ($3million), while 2022 saw 11th rounder, RHP Caden Dana (Angels) set a Day 3 record at $1.5 million. Those two came on the heels of a record setting 2021 class that included RHP Chase Petty (Twins, 1st round), LHP Anthony Solmeto (Pirates, 2nd round), and RHP Shane Panzini (Royals, 4th round) who all commanded 7-figure bonuses in lifting the prospect profile of the Garden State to new levels. So while attention was certainly given to its many prospect hopefuls throughout the summer, the idea that there was a slam dunk bonus baby had not yet matriculated.

Enter RHP Chris Levonas (Christian Brothers HS, NJ), who unleashed a fury of electricity on February 4th in Chicago at the Super 60 that sent cross-checkers and scouting directors drawing up new travel plans in the northeast which would become even more beneficial with a slew of other spring risers. Now with four players prominently featured in prep Top 50, and seven in the Top 200, the Garden State has, once again, delivered a bountiful prospect class for the scouting community.

Levonas vs. Meccage

In what is becoming a spirited debate in the scouting community (Levonas vs. Meccage), one thing is for certain: