The Chicago White Sox selected Landon Thome with the 34th overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft [1].
The selection adds a high-profile prospect to the organization's farm system. Thome is the son of Hall of Famer Jim Thome [2], bringing a legacy of professional success to the South Side of Chicago.
Thome entered the draft as an infielder from Nazareth Academy [4]. He was also a commit for Florida State University [5], a status that often increases a player's leverage during draft negotiations. While some reports identify him specifically as a shortstop [3], he is broadly categorized as an infielder [4].
This pick follows a significant first-round move by the White Sox. The team held the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 draft and used it to select Roch Cholowsky, a shortstop from UCLA [3]. By adding Thome shortly after, the team is targeting young infield talent to rebuild its core.
The 2026 MLB Draft took place in July [3]. The White Sox strategy this year reflects a commitment to high-ceiling athletes with strong pedigree. Thome's transition from high school to the professional ranks will be closely watched by analysts and fans alike given his father's historic career in the major leagues.
Because Thome was an FSU commit [5], the White Sox will likely need to finalize a signing bonus that outweighs the value of a college scholarship. This is a common hurdle for teams drafting high school players with commitments to powerhouse programs.
“The Chicago White Sox selected Landon Thome with the 34th overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft.”
The White Sox are prioritizing a complete overhaul of their infield by pairing the top overall pick, Roch Cholowsky, with a legacy prospect like Landon Thome. By drafting a player with a strong collegiate commitment and a professional pedigree, the organization is betting on high-upside talent to accelerate its rebuilding process.
