Looking for the next big golf star? The Sony Open in Hawaii might just be the stage where underdogs become champions. While all eyes are on the big names, 'The Early Card' on 'The Drop' dives into why Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy’s season predictions are worth watching. But here’s where it gets interesting: the real story might be in the sleeper picks. Let’s break it down in a way that even beginners can follow, with a few surprises along the way.
S.H. Kim (+450) is one player you’ll want to keep an eye on. To borrow a phrase from Drew Goodman’s iconic home run call, take a good look at Kim’s odds now, because they won’t stay this way for long. After a brilliantly executed 2025 season, the 27-year-old South Korean is back in top form at the Sony Open. Last year, he dominated the Korn Ferry Tour’s all-around ranking, a stat that’s historically been a strong predictor of success at the highest levels of golf. With multiple wins globally and solid finishes at Waialae Country Club (T12 in 2023 and T24 in 2024), Kim is poised to make waves. But here’s the controversial part: Can he sustain this momentum, or will the pressure of the PGA TOUR prove too much?
Next up is Max McGreevy (+240), a player whose late-season heroics might remind you of Rico Hoey’s. It’s an easy mistake to make—both have been on fire in their respective journeys. Hoey, a world-class ball-striker, edges out McGreevy in this week’s Power Rankings, but don’t count McGreevy out just yet. He’s riding a wave of success after a phenomenal fall season, with two podium finishes and four top-15 placements. While neither has a standout record at Waialae (combined 1-for-6, with Hoey’s T59 last year), McGreevy’s recent form suggests he could be the one to watch. But the question remains: Can he translate his momentum into a breakthrough performance?
Finally, there’s Takumi Kanaya (+300), a player who hasn’t found success at Waialae (0-for-5) but is coming off his strongest season yet as a PGA TOUR member. He closed out 2025 with nine paydays in 10 starts worldwide, including a win and three top-five finishes, three of which were in his native Japan. While he’s yet to make the weekend at the Sony Open, that experience has rebuilt his confidence and could set the stage for a turnaround. And this is the part most people miss: Could Kanaya’s lack of success at Waialae actually be a hidden advantage, as he enters with lower expectations and less pressure?
Odds were sourced at FanDuel. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, help is available. Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER today.
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Which of these sleeper picks do you think has the best shot at a breakthrough, and why? Let’s hear your take in the comments—agree or disagree, the discussion is open!
