MLB’s winter meetings in Orlando brought exciting news: the Chicago White Sox snagged the No. 1 overall pick for the 2026 draft. This is a big deal, especially after their challenging last season when they lost 102 games.
With the draft still months away, it’s a great time to take a quick look at how the top picks might play out. Predictions can change, but past mock drafts give us a bit of insight. Last year, four out of five players listed in a similar exercise ended up in the top 11 picks.
Here’s a sneak peek at the likely top five picks for the 2026 MLB draft, based on expert opinions and scouting insights.
Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA
Cholowsky is making waves. He turned heads in 2023 but chose to stay in school. Now, as a sophomore at UCLA, he hit 23 home runs last season. His defensive skills are top-notch, and with his improved hitting, he’s a frontrunner for the No. 1 pick. It’s a win for the White Sox, giving them a strong player at a crucial position.Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian (Texas) HS
Emerson has long been viewed as a top prospect. At 6-foot-2 and left-handed, he excels in various aspects of the game. The Rays have a history of picking high school talent, and Emerson’s blend of safety and upside makes him an ideal choice.Minnesota Twins: Justin Lebron, SS, Alabama
Lebron has evolved since starting at Alabama. His speed, throwing ability, and defense make him a solid choice. However, he needs to refine his swing for better contact. The Twins have taken a mix of chances in recent drafts, and Lebron fits that mold.San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress, CF, Georgia Tech
Burress had potential but couldn’t sign in the 2023 draft. Now, at Georgia Tech, he has emerged as a significant player, showcasing his speed and power. The Giants favor college position players, making Burress a fitting selection.Pittsburgh Pirates: A.J. Gracia, OF, Virginia
Gracia flew under the radar in high school but quickly made a name for himself at Duke. His offensive skills shined through with a .305 average and 14 homers as a freshman. After transferring to Virginia, he looks poised for more success, and the Pirates may tap into talented college players like him.
Looking at the draft landscape, experts suggest that the highest-ranked players often come from strong college programs. For instance, a recent study pointed out that college players have a higher success rate in the MLB compared to high school players. This trend could shape the strategies of teams like the Pirates and Giants.
As the draft approaches, it’s a reminder of how crucial these early picks can be for franchises looking to rebuild and compete. Fans will be watching closely to see how predictions unfold. For more insights on MLB drafts and player development, you can check out MLB’s official page.
