White Sox Secure 2026 MLB Draft Lottery: Top 5 Picks Predicted

In a noteworthy turn of events at the MLB Winter Meetings in Orlando, the Chicago White Sox emerged victorious in the 2026 MLB Draft Lottery, securing the coveted No. 1 overall pick. Following a challenging season with 102 losses, this development offers a much-needed opportunity for the franchise to rebuild.

Top Predicted Picks for the 2026 MLB Draft

As experts begin to analyze the talent pool, here are the predicted top five selections for the upcoming draft:

• 1. Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA
• 2. Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian (TX) HS
• 3. Minnesota Twins: Justin Lebron, SS, Alabama
• 4. San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress, CF, Georgia Tech
• 5. Pittsburgh Pirates: A.J. Gracia, OF, Virginia

Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky

Roch Cholowsky, a standout shortstop from UCLA, is projected to be the top pick. After an impressive sophomore year where he hit 23 home runs, Cholowsky’s blend of defensive skills and offensive potential has drawn comparisons to top players like Dansby Swanson and Troy Tulowitzki. The addition of Cholowsky would enhance the White Sox’s roster, giving them a wealth of talent at a critical position.

Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson

The Tampa Bay Rays are expected to select Grady Emerson, a highly regarded prep shortstop from Texas. Known for his left-handed hitting and strong overall skills, Emerson stands 6-foot-2 and shows promise as he refines his abilities. His potential places him on the short list of top prospects in this draft class.

Minnesota Twins: Justin Lebron

Justin Lebron from Alabama is another frontrunner, showcasing extraordinary athleticism and offensive capabilities. Standing at 6-foot-2, he offers a mix of speed, power, and defensive skills. The Twins will likely prioritize his talent despite concerns about contact consistency, given their past draft strategies.

San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress

Drew Burress, a center fielder from Georgia Tech, displayed exceptional power during his college career, belting 25 home runs as a freshman. At 5-foot-8, he overcomes size limitations with impressive speed and a well-rounded set of tools that could attract the Giants.

Pittsburgh Pirates: A.J. Gracia

A.J. Gracia, an emerging talent from Virginia, switched from Duke after a stellar collegiate performance. His strong offensive numbers make him an attractive option for the Pirates, who are looking to bolster their lineup. Gracia’s versatile skill set and ability to excel at the plate put him in contention for the fifth pick.

2026 MLB Draft Order

The following teams compose the initial order of picks for the 2026 MLB Draft:

As the 2026 MLB Draft approaches, evaluation processes will intensify. The selections made could significantly alter the futures of these franchises.