The White Sox Strike Gold in 2026 MLB Draft Lottery
The Chicago White Sox have hit the jackpot in the 2026 MLB draft lottery, securing the first overall pick. This is a monumental moment for the team, as they haven't had the top selection since 1977. Their chances were high, with a 27.73% shot at the top spot after a challenging 2025 season.
Draft Lottery Shakes Up the Top Picks
The draft lottery, which determines the first six picks of the first round, brought some surprises. Here's how the top six shook out:
- Chicago White Sox - 1st overall
- Tampa Bay Rays - 2nd overall
- Minnesota Twins - 3rd overall
- San Francisco Giants - 4th overall
- Pittsburgh Pirates - 5th overall
- Kansas City Royals - 6th overall
Colorado Rockies Miss Out on Top Picks
Despite having the worst record in the league, the Colorado Rockies didn't secure a top pick. Teams are ineligible for lottery picks for three consecutive years, so they'll have to settle for the 10th pick this time.
Nationals and Angels Left Out of the Lottery
The Washington Nationals and Los Angeles Angels, classified as "payor clubs" (teams that share revenue with others), also missed out. They can't receive consecutive lottery picks, so the Nationals will pick 11th, and the Angels will pick 12th.
The Draft Lottery: A New Era
Introduced in 2022, the draft lottery aims to encourage teams to focus on winning rather than trading players to improve their draft positions. The 2026 draft will take place in Philadelphia during All-Star Week.
Last year, the Nationals won the lottery and selected high school shortstop Eli Willits with the first overall pick. It will be fascinating to see who the White Sox choose next year.
