Future MLB stars: Charlie Condon and Travis Bazzana’s rise from the Falmouth Commodores to top draft picks

 By Alexis Taylor

Alexis Taylor is the 2024 communications intern for the Falmouth Commodores. She is from Adams, Massachusetts, and is a rising junior at High Point University.

In the summer of 2023, two young baseball talents, fresh-faced and eager to play, were seen sporting the Falmouth Commodores uniform. Charlie Condon and Travis Bazzana took on Guv Fuller Field with determination and skill that would leave an everlasting mark on the Cape Cod Baseball League (CCBL). Fast forward to 2024, and these former Commodores are expected to have a future in Major League Baseball following record-setting seasons that have captured the attention of scouts and fans alike.

Charlie Condon: The never-stop search for greatness

Charlie Condon, a redshirt sophomore from the University of Georgia, has had a season for the books. First in practically every significant statistical category in the country, Condon’s performance has been nothing short of historic. He finished his college career with 37 home runs, setting a BBCOR-era record, in addition to his .433 batting average, coupled with a slugging percentage of 1.009 and an OPS of 1.565, he solidified his reputation as a powerhouse at the plate. Beyond the numbers, Condon’s dedication and work ethic have been applauded by his former coaches and teammates.

“You could tell he was a superstar both on and off the field,” said Mike Murray, the assistant GM of the Commodores, emphasizing his commitment. 

Condon’s success on the field is mirrored by his achievements in the classroom. As a member of the SEC Academic Honor Roll, he exemplifies the student-athlete ideal. 

In addition, Condon’s standout performances earned him SEC Player of the Year honors, a spot on the NCAA Athens Regional All-Tournament Team and the 2024 Golden Spikes Award, the most prestigious honor in amateur baseball. But for Condon, the journey is about more than accolades.

Travis Bazzana: The dynamic trailblazer

Meanwhile, across the country as Oregon State University, Travis Bazzana has been equally remarkable. The Australian native has become the all-time leader in hits and home runs for the Beavers, and has dominated the Pac-12 conference. His .415 batting average, 28 home runs, and an OPS of 1.512 reflect his all-around ability. But Bazzana’s impact extends beyond his numbers; his dedication, passion and knowledge for the game have made him an all-around favorite.

“Travis was a model host son,” said Linda Peters, who was Bazzana’s host mom during his time on the Cape. “But most important, Travis was always considerate and kind, traits that while often under-appreciated, will help him go far in today’s world of baseball.”

Bazzana had an impressive summer in Falmouth, boasting a .375 batting average, 6 home runs, and 31 RBIs in a single season, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier prospect. His standout season earned him the 2023 Pat Sorenti MVP award. He participated in the CCBL all-star game, and was honored with the 2023 Thurman Munson Award, which recognizes the home run derby winner during the all-star game.

“Travis is the smartest baseball player I have ever had the chance to work with,” said Cullen Dunn, associate general manager for the Commodores. “His work ethic and love for the game is unmatched, which is why he is one of the top prospects in the country.”

Bazzana’s potential to become the first Australian to be selected first overall in the MLB Draft is proof of his hard work and determination. His career thus far has been one of breaking barriers and setting new standards.

The Commodores Connection

"Falmouth has a long tradition of turning out major league players, with 26 Commodores being drafted by major league teams in 2023,” said Bob Curtis, longtime president of the Commodores. “So, it's no surprise Travis and Charlie are both highly ranked among the elite in the 2024 MLB draft." 

The baseball world and those remembering Condon and Bazzana’s time on the Cape eagerly await the next chapter in their careers. Their time with the Commodores in the CCBL was a prominent moment, helping shape them into the standout players they are today. The bonds they formed, the lessons they learned, and the experiences they shared have all contributed to their journeys. For the Commodores, their success is a source of immense pride and a reminder of the transformative power of summer baseball in Cape Cod.

In a sport where statistics often dominate the narrative, Condon and Bazzana remind those that they are more than just top prospects. They are an embodiment of the human elements—dedication, resilience, and the unmatched support of those around them—that drive true greatness.

Sources: osubeavers.com, georgiadogs.com, capecodleague.com