With the 68th pick in the 2024 MLB draft, the White Sox used their Competitive Balance Round B selection on left-handed starting pitcher Blake Larson of IMG Academy (Fla.).

There are positives here, including a wicked slider that pairs with a fastball that already has crept to the mid-90s. On the other hand, the immediate reaction on the MLB broadcaswas that the pick of Larson indicates that the White Sox “are taking a long-term view of the rebuild.”

We sort of KNOW that already. But this has become a very strange draft, already, for the White Sox. It’s a bat-rich first-round class, and the White Sox opt for an arm. Apparently, between Chris Sale 14 years ago, a half-season of perfection from Garrett Crochet and Noah Schultz showing more stuff than stamina as he cruises up the prospects charts means the White Sox will never, ever, ever pass up a power lefty.

Because, in spite of a major league offensive WAR in the NEGATIVES (literally some of the first round bats could play in Chicago in the second half and represent an upgrade over almost any slot in the batting order), the White Sox waited one whole round before tripping on ANOTHER power lefty. But this time, he’s rated No. 104 by MLB Pipeline, taken at No. 68.

Larson moved from Iowa to Florida for his senior year, and for sure the IMG pedigree is what got him snapped up on the draft’s first day. Further validation? His college commitment, to TCU. At 6´2´´with a low-90s fastball now, it is exciting to think of where this arm could end up, soon.

Still, the White Sox are aiming low with their picks, which seems to be risking a lot given the farm system, as of now, is MAYBE middling. Whatever bats you think are coming to mash on the South Side, friends, ain’t much help coming this draft.

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)
Second Round Competitive Balance Round B (No. 68 overall) Blake Larson (ranked No. 104)

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