Hagen Smith needs to be a dude

The Pirates are calling up Konnor Griffin, the No. 1 prospect in baseball whom the White Sox notably passed on during the 2024 MLB Draft. 

The Sox also passed on Jac Caglianone and JJ Wetherholt, two exciting young bats at the MLB level already. 

It just further highlights the need for Hagen Smith to be good. Some believe he's been underwhelming despite decent production at every level he's pitched at. But 2026 is a big year for him to justify the White Sox making that draft pick. 

Especially given the current need for pitching in the organization, it would help make Sox fans feel better if Griffin goes on a tear as a rookie.