White Sox hold first pick in 2026 MLB draft

The Chicago White Sox will make the first selection in the 2026 Major League Baseball draft on Saturday, July 11, with a trio of elite prospects considered the leading candidates for the top spot. The draft, which spans two days at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, will open the league's All-Star week festivities.

The consensus top talents are UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky, Texas high school shortstop Grady Emerson, and Georgia Tech catcher Vahn Lackey. Analysts report no definitive league-wide agreement on which player should be chosen first, creating significant anticipation for the White Sox's decision.

Emerson, a standout from Fort Worth Christian High School, has gained considerable momentum in recent projections. He was named the Gatorade National Player of the Year and is only the second high school player ever to be named a Golden Spikes Award finalist, joining Kansas City Royals star Bobby Witt Jr. In his senior season, Emerson hit .532 with seven home runs and 31 stolen bases while leading his team to a state championship game. Scouts praise his advanced hit tool and all-around athleticism, with some comparisons to major league stars like Corey Seager and Witt.