With the 43rd pick in the second round of the 2024 MLB draft, the White Sox chose shortstop Caleb Bonemer of Okemos H.S. (Mich.).

Given Bonemer fell to No. 71 in the final analysis by MLB Pipeline, this is a stretch of a pick.

The most notable observation that the MLB Network panel had to say was that Bonemer once was projected for the middle of the first round. Bonemer was Michigan’s baseball player of the year for both 2023 and 2024 and was a dominant bat in several summer showcases in 2023 (prompting his first round projection at the time).

There are questions whether Bonemer will stick at shortstop, as scouts feel he is a little “stiff” — and that’s not eventually, that’s right now, heading into the pros. The White Sox announced him as a shortstop, so you’d imagine he’ll get a shot in the middle of the field when he makes his White Sox debut in fall instructionals.

That is, provided Bonemer signs. He’s slotted for $2.17 million, but making the reach might indicate the White Sox will shave that bonus down. The prep star had committed to the University of Virginia.

There is also question over Bonemer at the plate, as he is pull-heavy, leaving him susceptible to higher-level pitches and indicating a dominant but basic approach on offense.

2024 Chicago White Sox Draft Picks
First Round (No. 5 overall) Hagen Smith, LSHP (ranked No. 5 on MLB Pipeline)
Second Round (No. 43 overall) Caleb Bonemer, SS (ranked No. 71 on MLB Pipeline)

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