Shane Smith, former Governors Academy standout, was selected first overall by the Chicago White Sox in the 2024 MLB Rule 5 Draft. Since his debut on April 1, he has excelled, establishing himself as the ace of the rotation. Smith was named to the American League roster for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, making history as the first rookie pitcher for the White Sox to do so. Despite recent struggles, he has second-best ERA among AL rookie starters and is the sole White Sox representative at the All-Star Game.
Smith becomes the first rookie pitcher in White Sox history to be selected as an All-Star and just the second player in MLB history to do so the season after being taken in the Rule 5 Draft, after Florida (now Miami) Marlins second baseman Dan Uggla made the 2006 All-Star Game after being selected from the Arizona Diamondbacks organization in the 2005 Rule 5 Draft.
A year ago, this isn't where I pictured myself, but to be here with you guys and do it like this has been incredible.
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