The Chicago White Sox are calling up their No. 2 ranked and MLB's 21 overall prospect amid two straight series losses. Outfielder Braden Montgomery is expected to make his major league debut on Tuesday against the Atlanta Braves.
Drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the first round of the 2024 MLB draft, Montgomery was a part of the deal that sent starting pitcher Garrett Crochet to Boston from Chicago in exchange for four top prospects.
The 23-year-old outfielder has started off hot to begin his season after being promoted to Triple-A Charlotte. In his 29 games played at the Triple-A level, Montgomery is slashing .315/.417/.495 with four home runs and 19 RBIs.
Montgomery is a switch hitter who primarily plays in right field, while occasionally filling in center field. He has been great from both sides of the plate but he is highly noted for his powerful left-handed swing.
The former two-way player has a 70 grade arm. In college, he was able to reach 96 mph on the mound, leading to an exceptional arm in the outfield.
Montgomery is the last of the four prospects included in the Crochet trade to make his major league debut. He will join second basement Chase Meidroth as the only other active members of that trade, as both Kyle Teel and Wikelman González are currently down with injuries.
Montgomery's great hit and defensive tools should help boost the White Sox offense during the team's recent rough stretch. Since losing Munetaka Murakami to a right hamstring strain on May 30, the White Sox swept the Detroit Tigers before losing two straight series to the Minnesota Twins and Philadelphia Phillies.
While their offense has not been the issue during this stretch, but an extra boost in the lineup from Montgomery may be able to help the White Sox push through their rough pitching staff. Their staff sits 20th in baseball per ERA (4.38).
The White Sox young core this season has led them to a 34-31 record. They hold second place in the American League Central division behind the Cleveland Guardians. Following three straight 100 loss seasons, the Southside is headed in the right direction.
The White Sox take on the Atlanta Braves Tuesday at 7:40 p.m. in Chicago to start a three game set. With the MLB No. 21 ranked prospect making his debut, this game will surely not be one to miss.
