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MLB commissioner Rob Manfred goofs up first overall draft pick’s name
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred stumbled at the start of the 2026 MLB Draft on Saturday by mispronouncing or misreading the name of the first overall pick. The gaffe came at the highest-profile moment of the event, drawing attention on social media and turning what should have been a celebratory announcement into a viral misstep.
The Chicago White Sox held the top selection in this year's draft and used it to take UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky. According to the article, Manfred read the young star's name incorrectly as he announced the pick to open proceedings, adding an awkward note to the draft's opening moments.
In short
- Rob Manfred botched the top draft pick's name on Saturday.
- The White Sox selected UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky first overall.
- The 2026 MLB Draft opened with the commissioner's viral gaffe.
Explained simply
The MLB Draft is an annual event where professional baseball organisations select college and high school players to build their rosters. Held each year, it marks a crucial moment for young athletes entering professional baseball and for organisations looking to invest in their future.
At this year's draft on Saturday, the Chicago White Sox used the first overall pick to select UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky. Commissioner Rob Manfred, who heads Major League Baseball, announced the pick but mispronounced the player's name.
The first overall pick represents one of the most significant moments of the draft, and the announcement typically draws wide attention. Commissioner Manfred's role is to serve as Major League Baseball's public representative, making his announcements a focal point of the draft's opening moments.