Roch Cholowsky, the Chicago White Sox’s 2026 first overall pick, is likely done for the season with wrist soreness, continuing a trend of immediate play for top draft picks. Eli Willits (2025, Washington Nationals) and Travis Bazzana (2024, Cleveland Guardians) are also seeing early development.
The Chicago White Sox selected Roch Cholowsky, a shortstop from UCLA, with the first overall pick in July. Cholowsky entered professional baseball as a three-time All-American, two-time Big Ten Player of the Year, and a Golden Spikes finalist. Despite his accolades, Cholowsky has struggled early in his career, hitting .167 with one home run and 10 RBIs in nine games. His injury and adjustment to professional play may be contributing factors. However, the White Sox believe Cholowsky still has significant potential, noting his four-plus tools and over 20 home runs in his last two seasons at UCLA, as well as being named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.
Eli Willits, the Washington Nationals’ 2025 first overall pick, began his career strongly, hitting .300 in his first 15 games at Single-A. Willits, whose father played six seasons with the Angels and now coaches at Oklahoma, is now ranked as the fourth-best prospect in baseball. He has demonstrated five-tool potential, including over 40 extra-base hits and nearly 60 stolen bases this season. He is a switch-hitter with above-average fielding skills.
Travis Bazzana, an Australian infielder drafted by the Cleveland Guardians in 2024, homered in his first game with the Lake County Captains, their High-A affiliate.
Read the original coverage
💬 Comments
📜 Comment Policy