Connor Fennell, a right‑handed pitcher from Vanderbilt University, was selected by the Chicago White Sox in the 20th round of the 2026 MLB Draft, marking the culmination of a three‑year collegiate career that blended swing‑role versatility with weekend starting duties.
During the 2026 season Fennell opened the year as Vanderbilt’s Friday night starter, taking the mound in fifteen games and posting a 4.96 earned run average while striking out 102 batters against just 20 walks across 85 ⅓ innings.
His performance was anchored by six quality starts, five of which came in Southeastern Conference play, and he limited opponents to three runs or fewer in ten of his fifteen outings, including a stretch where he surrendered only three home runs and fifteen doubles.
A Vanderbilt Legacy
Fennell’s draft selection underscores Vanderbilt’s continued pipeline of major‑league talent, a tradition reinforced by head coach Tim Corbin, who guided the Commodores through a period of sustained success.
Under Corbin’s stewardship, Vanderbilt cultivated a culture of development that helped Fennell transition from a swing role to a reliable starter, a journey that began with his 2024 transfer and culminated in a draft‑ready profile.
Looking Forward
If the White Sox’s developmental plan unfolds as anticipated, Fennell could emerge as a back‑of‑the‑rotation option within a few seasons, adding depth to a bullpen that already boasts a strong changeup‑centric philosophy.