Colson Montgomery’s Rise as a Defensive Force with the White Sox
Colson Montgomery has emerged as a standout rookie for the Chicago White Sox, capturing attention not just for his remarkable hitting but also for his impressive defensive skills as a shortstop. With 18 home runs in his first 55 games, he has set a record for the most home runs by a primary shortstop in MLB history during that span. Yet, Montgomery’s contributions extend beyond his power at the plate, signaling a bright future for the young player.
Defensive Brilliance on Display
Montgomery’s defensive capabilities were on full display during a crucial moment in the White Sox’s 6-5 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. In the second inning, with the bases loaded and one out, the Rays posed a significant threat after coaxing three consecutive walks from starter Sean Burke. As leadoff hitter Chandler Simpson stepped up, the stage was set for a potential scoring opportunity.
Simpson, known for his speed and ranking second in MLB with 40 stolen bases, hit a ground ball toward the middle. However, Montgomery showcased his athleticism by executing an unassisted double play, deftly fielding the ball, retreating to the bag, and making an accurate throw to escape the inning unscathed.
“Really impressive,” said White Sox manager Will Venable. “You think about that play, the athleticism to catch the ball, retreat back to the bag and get a throw off with arguably the fastest runner in the league. Just really impressive. The physicality, the athleticism, and the internal clock were all on display.”
Ranking Among the League’s Best Defenders
Montgomery’s defensive prowess has placed him among the elite shortstops in several key metrics, as compiled by FanGraphs.
In terms of fielding run value, he ranks 10th among players with at least 350 innings, showcasing his ability to contribute defensively.
His defensive runs saved total stands at seven, positioning him as one of the top performers in that category as well.
Additionally, Montgomery has shown his capability with four outs above average, further solidifying his reputation as a reliable shortstop.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the White Sox contemplate their long-term plans, Montgomery’s emergence as a key player cannot be overstated. Drafted in the first round in 2021, he has fulfilled the expectations set upon him as their top prospect from 2022 to 2024.
“I would certainly say he has made an impact on us and our decision making on what that position looks like moving forward,” Venable remarked. “He’s certainly put himself in the conversation to be the starting shortstop moving forward. Every club in the league would like to have a 6-4 shortstop who hits a bunch of homers. So yeah, we’re in a good spot with him.”
The combination of Montgomery’s offensive firepower and his defensive skill set presents a promising future for the White Sox and their fans. As he continues to develop, Montgomery’s dual-threat capability at the plate and in the field could very well become a cornerstone for the team moving forward.
