It’s been a rough start to 2026 for the White Sox. They sit at the bottom of the AL Central with a record of 5-10 and have struggled to build any consistent momentum in the early going. But a much-needed spark may be on the way. Top left-handed pitching prospect Noah Schultz is getting called up, per Elijah Evans of Just Baseball and FutureSox. He make his MLB debut on Tuesday at home against the Rays.
Schultz, 22, was the White Sox first round pick in 2022 and has gradually climbed the minor leagues ever since. A top 100 prospect for most of his professional career, Schultz currently ranks as the no. 2 prospect in the White Sox organization and the no. 46 prospect in baseball per MLB.com. His 6’10 frame draws comparisons to Randy Johnson, and his overpowering fastball, changeup, and slider repertoire has allowed him to strike out 248 hitters across 202.1 minor league innings.
Hot Start To 2026
After a somewhat down 2025 season in which he was plagued by knee issues, Schultz has bounced back in a big way in the early going this year. In 14 innings across three games with the Triple-A Charlotte Knights, he has allowed just four hits and two earned runs while striking out 19. His command has been on point as well, walking just two batters. All told, he put up a sparkling 1.29 ERA, 0.43 WHIP, 12.2 K/9, and 9.5 SO/BB ratio in Triple-A.
He looks fully healthy and the White Sox front office clearly noticed his hot start. A starting rotation spot opened up when Opening Day starter Shane Smith was sent down, and now Schultz will have the opportunity to prove he belongs at the MLB level. Evans also noted that the timing of the call-up will allow the White Sox to retain an extra year of control of Schultz’s services.
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More Reinforcements Coming
Schultz will be the first major reinforcement headed to Chicago this season, but not the last. Sam Antonacci is right behind him and will likely get the call himself sooner rather than later. A natural infielder and the no. 9 prospect in the organization per MLB.com, Antonacci has played mostly left field with the Knights and has recorded a .317 batting average and .997 OPS in 41 Triple-A at-bats. With the White Sox offense sputtering and the outfield desperately in need of help, it feels like only a matter of time before he gets his opportunity.
Glimmer of Hope For White Sox
This season hasn’t gotten off to the start White Sox fans were hoping for, but brighter days appear to be on the horizon. Schultz and Antonacci figure to be the first wave of prospects coming to Chicago, with other top prospects like Hagen Smith and Tanner McDougal likely not far behind. Kyle Teel and Everson Pereira are both progressing in their rehab processes and will likely be back soon as well. These reinforcements could be just what the White Sox need to get back on track.
