Landen Payne, a standout pitcher for Southern Miss, has been selected by the Chicago White Sox in the 2025 MLB Draft, going 526th overall in the 18th round. This marks a significant achievement, as he becomes the fourth Golden Eagle to be drafted this year, joining teammates JB Middleton, Jake Cook, and Nick Monistere.

Payne's journey to the draft is marked by a remarkable improvement; after posting a 9.00 ERA in 2024, he dramatically reduced it to 2.76 in the 2025 season, showcasing his potential and resilience. Over 20 games, he achieved a 2-1 record with three saves, striking out 47 batters and maintaining a WHIP of 0.98. His success is a testament to his development and hard work, making him a promising addition to the White Sox roster.

In the recent MLB amateur draft, the Chicago White Sox picked Landon Hodge, a standout catcher from Crespi High, with the first selection of the fourth round. Hodge, who has committed to LSU, is expected to bring significant depth to the White Sox's farm system. Other notable draft picks included Riley Kelly, a pitcher from Tustin High, selected by the Rockies, and Colin Yeaman, a shortstop from Saugus, who went to the Orioles. The Cubs also made headlines by drafting outfielder Josiah Hartshorn from Orange Lutheran in the sixth round.

The draft spanned from the fourth to the twentieth rounds and highlighted a mix of talent from California schools and universities. Pitchers Sean Youngerman and Caden Hunter found homes with the Phillies and Orioles, respectively. The Tigers added two players in the later rounds, selecting Nick Dumesnil and Trevor Heishman, both of whom showed remarkable performance in their high school and collegiate careers. The White Sox's choice of Hodge underscores their commitment to strengthening their roster for the future.

In the latest MLB amateur draft, Landon Hodge, an outstanding catcher from Crespi, was the first pick of the fourth round by the Chicago White Sox. This player, who has already committed to LSU, is anticipated to bring significant talent to the team. Other notable selections included Riley Kelly, a Tustin High pitcher, chosen by the Rockies, and Colin Yeaman, a shortstop from UC Irvine, who was picked by the Orioles. Both players showcase the depth of talent coming out of the collegiate level.

As the draft progressed, several pitchers and position players were selected, including Sean Youngerman, who was picked by the Phillies, and outfielder Josiah Hartshorn, who joined the Cubs. Notably, the Tampa Bay Rays selected Aidan Cremarosa and the Tigers added Nick Dumesnil, highlighting the focus on strategic team-building through youth talent.

The MLB All-Star Break isn't just about the festivities; it signifies the onset of intense trade speculation as executives scramble to bolster their rosters before the deadline. The New York Yankees are eyeing Eugenio Suárez, whose powerful stats could add much-needed energy to their lineup. The Yankees' recent struggles have made this trade particularly appealing.

The Chicago Cubs are shifting focus from Sandy Alcantara to Mitch Keller, whose consistent performance positions him as a safer option to strengthen their playoff rotation. Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners are gearing up to acquire Josh Naylor, enhancing their first base productivity as they chase postseason aspirations.

The Detroit Tigers are looking at David Bednar to bolster a struggling bullpen, while the San Diego Padres may target Jarren Duran to improve their outfield. The New York Mets want to shed Luis Robert’s contract, viewing him as a gamble worth taking. Additionally, the Houston Astros are interested in Cedric Mullins for added depth. Each of these trades could reshape playoff scenarios significantly.

Recent years have tested the resolve of Chicago White Sox fans, but the team's 10th overall pick in the MLB Draft, shortstop Billy Carlson, offers a glimmer of hope. Analysts hailed the selection, with ESPN's Jesse Rogers calling it his favorite pick of the night and David Schoenfield labeling it the draft's biggest steal. Carlson boasts impressive defensive skills and power, with MLB.com rating his arm at 65 and his fielding at 70. If he develops his hitting, he could become a significant asset for the Sox.