Antonacci’s Unlikely Path to MLB On-Base Excellence

Sam Antonacci, at only 23 years old, plays as a utility player for the Chicago White Sox. While not a top contender for the American League Rookie of the Year, Antonacci has shown his worth in an uncommon way. He excels at getting on base, but interestingly, by being hit by pitches more than any other player in Major League Baseball (MLB) this season.

As of August 23, 2026, Antonacci has been hit by pitches 24 times, leading the American League in this stat. This ability to get on base the ‘hard way’ brings significant value to his team. With over a month left in the regular season, he still has time to increase this number. During a game against the New York Mets, Antonacci was struck by a Nolan McLean curveball, marking his 24th hit by pitch of the season. This set a new franchise record for the White Sox, whose team history dates back to 1901.

Minnie Miñoso and Carlos Quentin previously held the team record, having been hit by pitches the most in a season in 1956 and 2011, respectively. Across all MLB teams, only 38 players have been hit by pitches more in a single season since 1901. Achieving such a record without injury is notable, considering the potential risks involved with getting hit by a baseball.

“It’s a testament to Antonacci’s resilience and determination to contribute to his team’s performance consistently,” remarked sports analyst Mark Hendricks.

For Antonacci, enduring the frequent impacts has resulted in a .363 on-base percentage, which is the highest on the White Sox as of August 22. Though he has just eight home runs, Antonacci ranks third on the team for hits, achieving 100 hits, and has a strikeout rate of 15.9%. This shows his capability to maintain effective contact with the ball.

Projected to finish the season with 29 HBPs, Antonacci would secure the 11th-highest count in American League and National League history, surpassing most players since Ty France’s 34 hit by pitches in 2023. The all-time record is held by Ron Hunt, with 50 hit by pitches during the 1971 season with the Montreal Expos.

Antonacci’s unique achievement highlights his commitment to his team by contributing within the rules and taking on the physical challenge of playing at the professional level.