With the No. 226 pick in the 2025 MLB Draft, the Chicago White Sox took a calculated swing by selecting right-handed pitcher Blaine Wynk from The Ohio State University. Wynk, a two-year Buckeye, had shown flashes of potential during his college career, toggling between roles as a reliever and a starter. However, his final college season presented challenges, as he struggled to find his rhythm, posting a 15.58 ERA over 8.2 innings before a shoulder injury sidelined him.

Despite these hurdles, Wynk managed to capture the attention of MLB scouts, showcasing enough promise to earn an invitation to the draft combine. There, his potential shone through, particularly in terms of his velocity-an enticing factor for the White Sox, who decided to take a chance on him with their first selection in the eighth round.

The decision raised eyebrows, as some speculated whether Wynk might return to college and transfer to a new program. Instead, he committed to the White Sox, aiming to make his mark in the minors at a young age.

Fast forward to today, and Wynk, now 22, has found his footing with the Kannapolis Cannon Ballers, the White Sox’s Single-A affiliate in North Carolina. Over nine games, including eight starts and one relief appearance, he’s logged 25.2 innings with a commendable 3.51 ERA and a 1.442 WHIP. While his hits and walks per nine innings remain on the higher side, his ability to limit hard contact has been a positive sign.

Wynk’s knack for keeping the ball in the park has been evident, surrendering just two home runs this season. At the college level, homers weren’t his kryptonite; rather, it was his command that often faltered. Yet, with a fastball touching 97 mph, there’s plenty for professional coaches to mold into a more refined arsenal.

The young pitcher is still working on honing his control, but the flashes of brilliance are there. In his most recent outing on May 22, Wynk recorded nine swings and misses, a testament to his ability to deceive hitters.

For Wynk, the path forward involves refining his secondary pitches and reducing his walk rate. If he can achieve that, he might just carve out a role as a reliable back-end starter or a formidable reliever with a penchant for heat.

As the 2026 MLB Draft approaches, the spotlight will shift to the next batch of Buckeyes poised to make the leap to professional baseball. Meanwhile, Wynk’s journey serves as a reminder of the potential hidden within late-round picks, waiting to be unlocked with the right development and opportunity.