White Sox Steal One of the Best High School Bats in 2026 MLB Draft

With the first pick in the second round and the 41st overall selection in the 2026 MLB Draft, the Chicago White Sox selected Cole Prosek, a high school infielder from Mississippi who could be one of the steals of the draft.

Prosek lacks the five-tool potential that often jumps off the page to teams in the draft. He does not run particularly well, and there is still some uncertainty about where his defensive home will be. But there was still speculation that he might sneak into the first round because he is viewed as one of the most advanced hitters in the entire draft class.

At Magnolia High School, Prosek won a state title every year he played high school baseball. In 2025, he hit a home run in the championship game. He hit another home run and pitched a complete game in the 2026 championship game.

While he played some catcher in high school, Prosek probably profiles as a corner infielder in the pros and will join the White Sox organization as a primary third baseman. But of course, the real prize here is the bat.

Prosek is a left handed hitter with a 60-grade hit tool and 50-grade power, according to MLB Pipeline.

According to Baseball America, that translates into a projected batting average around .290 with 20 home runs. But I think that undersells his power a bit, and I believe it could become a true plus tool as he develops and matures in his offensive approach. Prosek hit 18 home runs in 41 games this spring, the second most of any high school player in the nation.

As is the case with any high school talent, there is still a lot of development that needs to be done here. But the production speaks for itself, and the White Sox are getting a first round talent and a high upside bat in the second round of the draft, thanks in large part to the trade that landed them an additional selection in Competitive Balance Round A and more bonus pool money.

For reference, Prosek was the No. 27 prospect in MLB Pipeline’s draft class rankings, and the White Sox got him at 41st overall.

You have your high floor future star in Roch Cholowsky anchoring the draft class. But following that selection by adding Landon Thome and Cole Prosek gives the White Sox another wave of young offensive talent that can restock the next generation of their farm system.

I think Chicago did really well here. Adding Prosek with the No. 41 pick brings even more exciting upside to this draft class.