December 9th, 2025, could very well be a landmark day in recent White Sox history. That’s when the team clinched the top spot in the 2026 MLB Draft Lottery, earning the coveted first overall pick in a draft class brimming with elite talent.
UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky is making a compelling case to be that top pick. Early in the college season, he's sending a strong message: he’s the one to watch.
Explosive Start to 2026
The 20-year-old has burst onto the scene for the Bruins this season. In just five games, Cholowsky has already launched five home runs, including two games with multiple homers. Add to that three doubles, ten RBIs, 11 runs scored, a jaw-dropping 1.286 slugging percentage, and a 238 wRC+.
It’s a small sample size, but Cholowsky is picking up right where he left off last year. In 2025, he slashed .353/.480/.710 with 23 home runs across 66 games, earning accolades as the Big Ten Conference Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year.
He led UCLA to their first College World Series appearance in 12 years and took home the Brooks Wallace Award for the best college shortstop. His talents even landed him a spot on the United States national baseball team.
According to Jim Callis of MLB Pipeline, Cholowsky is “the biggest lock” for the first pick since Adley Rutschman in 2019, and the best college shortstop since Troy Tulowitzki in 2005.
Cholowsky’s off-field reputation is just as impressive. Known for his work ethic, preparation, and leadership, he’s a standout both on and off the field.
His multi-sport background, including a scholarship offer to play quarterback at Notre Dame, adds to his appeal. UCLA coach John Savage calls him a “head coach’s dream.”
With a combination of skills and leadership, Cholowsky looks like a potential face-of-the-franchise player who has landed in the White Sox's lap.
Other Top Contenders
While Cholowsky seems like a perfect fit for the White Sox, the draft isn’t until July, and much can change. Alabama’s Justin Lebron is also making waves with four homers and a 1.486 OPS. Grady Emerson, a high school shortstop from Texas, and UC Santa Barbara pitcher Jackson Flora are also in the mix for the top spot, depending on how the season unfolds.
A Golden Opportunity for the White Sox
The White Sox find themselves in an enviable position with the first pick in a talent-rich draft. Regardless of their final decision, they are poised to select a prospect with franchise-altering potential. With Cholowsky’s standout performances, he might just make their choice a whole lot easier.