White Sox Secure 2026 Top Draft Pick; Rays Claim Second Spot
The Chicago White Sox emerged victorious in the 2026 MLB draft lottery, earning the top selection for the upcoming draft. This marks a significant moment for the White Sox, as it is their first first-round pick since selecting Harold Baines in 1977. Following a challenging season with a record of 60-102 in 2025, the team had the highest odds, sitting at 27.73%, to secure the number one pick.
2026 MLB Draft Lottery Results
The results of the lottery revealed the first six selections for the draft, with the White Sox taking the lead. Below is the confirmed draft order:
- 1. Chicago White Sox
- 2. Tampa Bay Rays
- 3. Minnesota Twins
- 4. San Francisco Giants
- 5. Pittsburgh Pirates
- 6. Kansas City Royals
- 7. Baltimore Orioles
- 8. Oakland Athletics
- 9. Atlanta Braves
- 10. Colorado Rockies
- 11. Washington Nationals
- 12. Los Angeles Angels
- 13. St. Louis Cardinals
- 14. Miami Marlins
- 15. Arizona Diamondbacks
- 16. Texas Rangers
- 17. Houston Astros
- 18. Cincinnati Reds
The Tampa Bay Rays earned the second overall pick, while the Minnesota Twins, who had a 22.18% chance, secured the third pick. The San Francisco Giants, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Kansas City Royals completed the top six selections determined by the lottery.
Lottery Eligibility and Constraints
Notably, the Colorado Rockies, who finished the season with a record of 43-119, were ineligible for the lottery. Teams cannot receive lottery picks in three consecutive years, which is why they will pick tenth. Similarly, the Washington Nationals and Los Angeles Angels also missed eligibility due to their status as “payor clubs,” which limits their ability to obtain consecutive lottery picks. The Nationals secured the 11th pick, while the Angels will draft 12th.
Background on MLB Draft Lottery
The MLB draft lottery was established in March 2022 through a collective bargaining agreement between the league and the players’ association. This initiative was designed to promote competition among teams by discouraging player trades aimed at securing higher draft positions.
Upcoming Draft Details
The 2026 MLB Draft will occur from July 11-12 in Philadelphia, coinciding with MLB’s All-Star Week festivities. Last year, the Washington Nationals used the number one pick to select high school shortstop Eli Willits.
The recent developments reflect a shift in strategy for teams as they prepare for the draft, highlighting the ongoing evolution of MLB’s structures and regulations.
