One of the best draft picks from the 2023 draft, George Wolkow could prove to be the best player to come out of that draft class. The hometown product from Downers Grove, Wolkow was considered a first-round talent in the 2024 draft. He reclassified and he was still considered one of the best hitters in the class. Scouts had him going in the first three to four rounds, but due to signability issues, the White Sox were able to snag him in the 7th round, despite being a first-round talent. Getting a hometown kid is something fans love, and I am sure he is just as excited.
Scouts are in love with his power, as MLB has him ranked a 60 on the 80 scale for power, meaning it is well above average. This is fitting, as he is 6 foot 7 inches tall. But, he doesn’t move like that, as scouts rank his speed just a little below average. He has the frame and the raw power to hopefully turn into someone like Aaron Judge. While that might be unlikely, if he was anywhere near the player Judge is, that would be a steal in the 7th round.
Wolkow had the ability to play in the Northwoods League this past summer, which is normally reserved for high-level college players. He was almost four years younger than the average player and was by no means overmatched. Hit .222 with a .307 OBP. He would add two home runs, five RBIs, and two stolen bases. For a high schooler playing against juniors in college, those stats are just fine. It is nice to see he can compete with the top players in the country.
Once he was drafted he only played in the Arizona Complex League for the Sox. There he was about three years younger than the average players, again playing above his age group. There he would do alright, hitting .225, with a .395 OBP. He would add one homer, three RBIs, and nine walks in just 13 games. He did strike out 17 times, but that is just what happens to younger hitters when they are adjusting to a new level.
He played both right field and center field, but he was significantly better in right. Due to his size, that is likely where he will stick for the long term. Perhaps as he gets older he can increase his agility and play center better, but it might be for the best if he stays in right field. Especially, if Robert is still patrolling center for the Sox.
He is still super young and will take a while to develop. But, having these tools as a 17-year-old is extremely impressive and he could be the next White Sox sensation if all goes right. I would grade him out as an A- just because he showed he belonged, despite being significantly younger than most of the competition he faced. He should be a fun prospect to follow, especially considering he will start in low-A next season.
