​The Chicago White Sox kicked off the 2026 MLB Draft by selecting Landon Thome, the son of Hall of Famer Jim Thome, with the No. 34 pick after acquiring the pick from the Pittsburgh Pirates. The choice came as something of a confirmation for fans who had long expected the White Sox to take a Thome offspring, given the family legacy and Thome’s strong ties to Chicago. According to Jon Heyman of The New York Post, Chicago chose Landon Thome, an infielder who played his high school baseball at Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park, Illinois, and who bats left-handed with noticeable power potential. Like his father, Landon profiles as an infielder with a bat-first approach, and at 18 years old, he represents a multi-year project for the Sox as he progresses through the farm system.
Thome’s selection brings a dash of star-power to the organization, even if the path to the majors for Landon will be gradual. The Chicago farm system will be tasked with developing a player who already carries strong genetic pedigree and a natural inclination toward hitting for power. While Leaping to the big leagues may take time, the payoff could be significant if Landon can translate his high school performance into professional success. The White Sox are betting on his upside, trusting that their development staff can refine his swing mechanics, approach at the plate, and defensive versatility as he grows into a potential future major-league contributor.
Reflecting on Jim Thome’s career, the Hall of Famer left a lasting imprint on the game, including a résumé that features 612 career home runs, 1,699 RBIs, a .956 OPS, and a 22-year MLB career highlighted by multiple All-Star selections, a Silver Slugger, and a Roberto Clemente Award. Thome’s memorable stint with the White Sox—where he spent four seasons and delivered some of his best power numbers—adds an extra layer of excitement for fans who remember his impact in Chicago. Landon Thome now carries that lineage into the White Sox organization, and while surpassing his father’s legacy is a tall order, the selection stands out as a compelling and hopeful addition to the team’s long-term plan.
In the broader landscape of MLB draft chatter, this pick sits amid other notable trade and scouting rumors. For instance, rival discussions have featured scenarios such as Cubs or Phillies trade talk and speculative moves involving players like Seiya Suzuki or Jung Hoo Lee, as well as potential deals centered on pitchers like Luis Castillo or Robbie Ray. While those conversations highlight the dynamic nature of the draft period, Landon Thome’s selection remains a focal point for Chicago’s fanbase, who are eager to watch how this promising young infielder develops within the White Sox system.
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