Chicago White Sox first overall pick Roch Cholowsky reportedly agrees to record bonus
Roch Cholowsky, the first overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, has reportedly agreed to a record-setting signing bonus with the Chicago White Sox. The shortstop’s bonus is reported to be $10.35 million, marking the largest bonus in the current era of the MLB Draft. This figure surpasses the previous record of $9.25 million, which was jointly held by Cincinnati Reds pitcher Chase Burns and Colorado Rockies minor leaguer Charlie Condon from the 2024 draft.
Despite setting a new record for the current draft system, the bonus for Cholowsky is approximately $1 million less than the official slot value earmarked for the top pick this year, which was $11,350,600. This strategy of signing a top pick for less than the slot value is a common practice among teams. It allows them to allocate the remaining funds from their bonus pool to secure other talented players in later rounds of the draft.
An example of this strategy was seen last year when the Washington Nationals signed their No. 1 pick, Eli Willits, to an $8.2 million bonus, even though his slot value was $11,075,900. The Nationals then proceeded to offer significantly over-slot bonuses to their subsequent four draft selections. For instance, Coy James, who was the 142nd pick with a slot value of $508,900, received a $2.5 million bonus. This bonus was notably larger than that given to Michael Oliveto, the 34th overall pick.
The White Sox are anticipated to employ a similar approach with the approximately $1 million they have saved through Cholowsky’s signing. It is also suggested that a preliminary agreement regarding this bonus likely existed between Cholowsky and the White Sox prior to the draft, as teams typically have an understanding of a player’s signing expectations before making their selection.
Cholowsky’s Collegiate Performance and Draft Selection
Cholowsky, a UCLA shortstop, was widely considered a strong candidate for the first overall pick in this year’s draft. During his college career, he achieved a batting line of .329/.448/.624 and was recognized for his award-winning defensive skills at a demanding position. His performance at UCLA was a key factor in the White Sox’s decision to draft him.
White Sox GM Chris Getz commented on the team’s decision, stating that they were most comfortable with Roch Cholowsky for their first pick, regardless of the signing bonus amount. Getz also mentioned that the team had an interest in Cholowsky since his high school days and had followed his college career, noting his impact on his teammates and the program. This influence, Getz indicated, was a significant attraction for selecting him at No. 1.
Cholowsky, at 21 years old, hit .320 with 21 home runs and a 1.088 OPS for top-ranked UCLA in the past season. The White Sox officially made the selection at the July 11 draft event in Philadelphia. He is now expected to lead the next wave of talent for the White Sox, who currently hold a 50-45 record and lead the AL Central at the All-Star break.
Historical Context of Draft Bonuses
While Cholowsky’s bonus is a record within the current MLB Draft system, it does not represent the highest guaranteed money ever received by an MLB Draft pick. Before the implementation of the current system, which places limits on draft pick deals, Stephen Strasburg secured a major-league deal with the Nationals in 2009 that guaranteed him $15,107,104. This previous benchmark is not expected to be surpassed unless there are significant changes to the collective bargaining agreement or a considerable amount of time passes.
Had Cholowsky opted not to sign with the White Sox, he would have had the option to return to college for his senior year and re-enter the draft in the following year.
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Source: sports.yahoo.com
