What happened: The White Sox hold the No. 1 overall selection as the 2026 MLB Draft opens. Chicago enters the day already active in the draft pool, having previously traded infielder Jacob Gonzalez and left-hander Brandon Eisert to the Pirates for the No. 34 pick.

Why it matters: The top pick anchors a rebuild that has leaned on accumulating young talent and draft capital. Chicago's move to add the No. 34 selection alongside its first-overall pick signals a deliberate push to maximize this year's draft class rather than take a single swing.

What to watch: The White Sox's first-round selection is expected shortly after the draft begins Saturday, with the club's No. 34 pick, acquired from Pittsburgh, following later in the day.