The 2026 MLB Draft begins Saturday, July 11, with the Chicago White Sox holding the first overall selection. According to mock draft projections, the top pick is a contest between UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky and Texas Christian High School shortstop Grady Emerson, with Cholowsky currently holding a 50 percent probability of being selected first.
Who is expected to be the first overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft?
The Chicago White Sox face a critical decision regarding the top selection. Mock draft projections suggest the team is weighing two primary options: UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky and Texas Christian High School shortstop Grady Emerson. Cholowsky currently holds a 50 percent chance of being selected, while Emerson holds a 45 percent chance. Vahn Lackey, a catcher from Georgia Tech, is noted as a 5 percent possibility.
Teams often delay final decisions until the final week to evaluate all options. Proponents for both Cholowsky and Emerson are expected to present their cases within the White Sox draft room leading up to the July 11 start time.
How will the top 10 picks likely unfold?
The draft order for the first ten picks is subject to change based on the White Sox’s initial selection. According to recent projections, the following sequence is anticipated:
- 1. White Sox: Roch Cholowsky (SS, UCLA) or Grady Emerson (SS, TX Christian HS)
- 2. Rays: Grady Emerson (SS, TX Christian HS) or Vahn Lackey (C, Georgia Tech)
- 3. Twins: Vahn Lackey (C, Georgia Tech)
- 4. Giants: Jacob Lombard (SS, Miami)
- 5. Pirates: Eric Booth Jr. (OF, Mississippi)
- 6. Royals: Jackson Flora (RHP, UC Santa Barbara)
- 7. Orioles: Drew Burress (OF, Georgia Tech)
- 8. Athletics: Ryder Helfrick (C, Arkansas)
- 9. Braves: Gio Rojas (LHP, Florida)
- 10. Rockies: AJ Gracia (OF, Virginia)
The selection of the first pick creates a domino effect for the Tampa Bay Rays and Minnesota Twins. If the White Sox select Cholowsky, the Rays are projected to move to Emerson or Lackey. If Emerson is off the board, the Twins are positioned to select Lackey.
What talent trends are emerging in the 2026 class?
Two distinct strategies are appearing in the early rounds of the 2026 draft: a heavy emphasis on college hitters and a targeted search for high-upside high school arms. Organizations like the Orioles, Athletics, and Rockies are reportedly focusing on college bats to secure advanced hitting profiles.
The Rise of College Hitters
Several teams are prioritizing college-proven hitters over high school prospects. The Orioles are considering a wide range of college hitters, including Drew Burress and Justin Lebron. Similarly, the Rockies are looking at the plate discipline provided by players like AJ Gracia, while the Angels are reportedly eyeing college bats such as Derek Curiel from LSU.
High School Pitching and Two-Way Potential
While hitters are prominent, high-end arms remain highly valued. The Braves are linked to top prep arm Gio Rojas, and the Royals are considering Jackson Flora. Interestingly, some teams are looking at two-way versatility; the Royals have expressed interest in Jared Grindlinger as a potential two-way player, and the Diamondbacks are monitoring Grindlinger’s profile as well.
When and where can fans watch the MLB Draft?
The draft is split over two days with coverage available across multiple platforms. The schedule is as follows:
Day 1: Saturday, July 11
- Picks 1-10: 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. ET (NBC/Peacock)
- Picks 11-40: 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. ET (MLB Network, MLB.com, MLB TV, MLB+)
- Picks 41-135: 4:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. ET (MLB.com, MLB TV, MLB+)
Day 2: Sunday, July 12
- Rounds 5-20: 11:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. ET (MLB.com, MLB TV, MLB+)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the top-ranked prospect in the 2026 MLB Draft?
According to the expanded Draft Top 250, Texas prep shortstop Grady Emerson is currently ranked as the No. 1 prospect.
Which team has the first pick?
The Chicago White Sox hold the first overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft.
What is the main debate for the White Sox?
The White Sox are deciding between UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky and Texas Christian High School shortstop Grady Emerson.
Where can I watch the first 10 picks?
The first 10 picks will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock starting at 1:00 p.m. ET on July 11.
What do you think the White Sox should choose?
Share your draft predictions in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the final Top 40 projection arriving this Friday.
