Former White Sox first-round pick could be facing final stand with team in 2026

Sep 16, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago White Sox 2023 MLB Draft first round pick Jacob Gonzalez throws a ceremonial first pitch before a baseball game between the Chicago White Sox and Minnesota Twins at Guaranteed Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images | Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn ImagesWhen the White Sox drafted infielder Jacob Gonzalez in the first round of the 2023 MLB draft, many envisioned a future middle infield mainstay on the south side. Gonzalez, once considered a top five player in the draft class, fell to the White Sox at 15, and the club made him the choice despite questions about his bat translating to the pros. A left-handed college bat from the University of Mississippi, Gonzalez was viewed as a fast-moving prospect who could reach the big leagues in minimal time, but he’s yet to put it together in the minor leagues. Now in 2026, it could be the last chance for Gonzalez to make a career on the south side.

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