MLB Draft Day Arrives with Top Picks and Phillies Targets in Focus
The anticipation for the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft culminates today, Saturday, July 11, with the first four rounds kicking off this afternoon. The White Sox hold the crucial No. 1 overall pick and are expected to select a shortstop, weighing their options between UCLA’s Roch Cholowsky and Fort Worth Christian School’s Grady Emerson. Both players have been highly ranked, with Emerson recently surpassing Cholowsky for the top spot on one prominent draft ranking.
While Chicago deliberates on its top choice, other teams are also finalizing their strategies. The Phillies, currently possessing the 29th-ranked farm system, are reportedly eyeing several prospects to bolster their roster. College outfielders like Caden Sorrell, Logan Hughes, and Chase Brunson are drawing interest, with Sorrell specifically noted for his upside potential.
The Phillies are also linked to pitcher Peterson, who presents a wide range of outcomes due to strong stuff but inconsistent command. Should Peterson be available, the team would reportedly be very pleased. Additionally, Marchand and Jason Amalbert are on their radar, with Amalbert being a target for a later selection. Another prospect, Horn, is valued among the top-25 by a few teams, and rivals suggest the Phillies are among his potential suitors.
Day 1 of the draft will feature selections 1 through 135, with the initial picks broadcast on NBC and Peacock. The draft continues tomorrow, Sunday, July 12, covering rounds 5 through 20.
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