2024 Five Round Mock Draft 2.0 Unveiled: Chicago White Sox Targeting Talent in Thrilling Selections

The latest installment from FutureSox, Mock Draft version 3.0, was recently unveiled, with the final edition featuring player names set to drop just before the draft commences in Fort Worth, Texas. Scheduled to begin within a week, this event marks a significant occasion for the Chicago White Sox, who hold the fifth overall pick and will be making a total of 21 selections, bolstered by a competitive balance pick acquired from the Seattle Mariners earlier in the year.

In terms of financial firepower, the White Sox boast the sixth-largest bonus pool among MLB teams, totaling $14,593,300. With the inclusion of a 5% overage, they can spend up to $15,322,965 against their allocated pool. Each pick within the initial ten rounds of the draft carries an assigned value, collectively determining the amount each team can allocate across their selections. Should a top-ten round pick decline to sign, the assigned value of that pick is deducted from the team’s pool.

Teams exceeding their bonus pool face penalties, starting with a 75% tax on overages between 0-5%. Higher thresholds incur more severe penalties: surpassing by 5-10% results in the loss of a first-round pick in addition to the 75% tax, while exceeding by 10-15% costs a first and second-round pick plus a 100% tax. For overages exceeding 15%, teams forfeit two first-round picks and also pay a 100% tax. Notably, despite teams often flirting with the 5% overage threshold, none have yet faced the stiffer penalties in the twelve drafts under these rules.

Day three of the draft (rounds 11-20) allows for signings up to $150,000 per player without affecting the bonus pool total. This provision was exemplified by the White Sox’s 2023 selection of Mathias LaCombe in the 12th round, where his $450,000 signing bonus counted as $300,000 against their pool. Had he been chosen just a round earlier, the entire $450,000 would have impacted the pool.

Under the leadership of scouting director Mike Shirley, the White Sox have consistently exceeded their bonus pool in recent drafts, mirroring their strategy from 2023 when they spent $9,517,800 against a $9,072,800 pool, bumping up against the 5% threshold. The resulting overage of $445,000 incurred a $333,750 tax. During Shirley’s tenure, notable first-round selections include Garrett Crochet (2020), Colson Montgomery (2021), Noah Schultz (2022), and Jacob Gonzalez (2023).

Looking ahead to the 2024 draft, the White Sox have outlined their selections for the top ten rounds:

1. #5 overall: Konnor Griffin, SS/CF, Jackson Prep HS (MS) – $7,763,700
2. #43 overall: Boston Bateman, LHP, Camarillo HS (CA) – $2,172,800
3. #68 overall: Joey Oakie, RHP, Ankeny Centennial HS (IA) – $1,197,200
4. #78 overall: Cole Messina, C, South Carolina – $996,100
5. #107 overall: Connor Foley, RHP, Indiana – $682,800
6. #140 overall: Thatcher Hurd, RHP, LSU – $495,400
7. #169 overall: To be determined
8. #199 overall: To be determined
9. #229 overall: To be determined
10. #258 overall: To be determined
11. #289 overall: To be determined

Despite significant improvements to their farm system over the past year, which notably leans heavily towards pitching, the White Sox will adopt a more balanced approach in this draft iteration, reflecting a strategic shift towards addressing broader organizational needs.

Griffin emerges as a standout prospect for the White Sox, having reclassified to enter the 2024 draft early. A versatile talent with robust physical attributes, Griffin has garnered attention for his power, arm strength, defensive prowess, and impressive base-stealing capabilities. His potential spans multiple positions, from shortstop to center field, and his recent adjustments to his batting mechanics have further bolstered his profile. Named National High School Player of the Year by Gatorade, Griffin represents a top-tier addition to the White Sox’s prospect pipeline, poised to make an immediate impact upon joining their system.

Following Griffin, the White Sox look to fortify their pitching prospects with selections like Boston Bateman and Joey Oakie. Bateman, nicknamed “Sasquatch” for his imposing presence on the mound, brings a potent mix of fastball velocity and a high-spin curveball, complemented by his developmental trajectory through prestigious showcases and leagues. Meanwhile, Oakie, recognized for his electric arm and standout performances within the Midwest, offers a tantalizing blend of velocity and pitch repertoire that positions him as a prime candidate for the White Sox’s developmental programs.

In the subsequent rounds, the White Sox pivot towards positional depth with picks like Cole Messina, a power-hitting catcher from South Carolina known for his leadership and SEC standout performances. Conner Foley, a towering right-hander from Indiana, adds further pitching depth with his high-velocity fastball and promising secondary offerings. Thatcher Hurd, despite challenges at LSU, retains a formidable arsenal marked by a lively fastball and slider combination, though refining his command remains a priority.

Overall, the White Sox enter the 2024 MLB Draft with a calculated approach to balance their farm system while continuing to leverage their scouting and development strategies under Shirley’s stewardship. With a robust selection plan and a focus on top-tier talents, they aim to sustain and enhance their competitive edge in the evolving landscape of MLB talent acquisition and development.