CHICAGO — Colson Montgomery took notice of Chris Getz’s recent comments, and they resonated with him positively. Following the Chicago White Sox general manager’s assertion that Montgomery is poised to make his major league debut this season, the 6-foot-3 shortstop expressed eagerness to rise to the occasion.
“His words motivate me and bolster my confidence a bit,” Montgomery shared on Friday. “However, I recognize that nothing will be handed to me; I have to earn my place on the team.”
Montgomery will have ample chances to showcase his skills, potentially becoming the center of attention for the White Sox when spring training kicks off in Arizona next month.
After facing a staggering 41-121 season — the worst in modern major league history — the White Sox are navigating a rebuilding phase and have a vacancy at shortstop. The prospect of starting Montgomery in the lineup on opening day could mark a significant milestone for a franchise relying heavily on its player development efforts amid a flourishing farm system.
Nevertheless, Getz is prepared to provide Montgomery with additional time in the minors if necessary. With Josh Rojas agreeing to a $3.5 million, one-year contract earlier this January, and prospects like Chase Meidroth and Brooks Baldwin also in contention, there are alternatives in place.
“Everyone here has a sense of urgency and determination,” Montgomery remarked, who will celebrate his 23rd birthday on February 27.
Meidroth was brought to the White Sox as part of the deal involving Garrett Crochet that occurred with the Boston Red Sox in December. The 23-year-old, drafted in the fourth round in 2022, performed well, averaging .293 with seven home runs and 57 RBIs over 122 games at Triple-A Worcester last season.
When asked to elaborate on his playing style, Meidroth described himself as an “underdog” and emphasized his relentless work ethic.
“I bring energy every day, and I’m committed to playing hard, often leaving my jersey the dirtiest on the field after a game,” he explained.
Montgomery, one of the White Sox’s top prospects since being selected in the first round of the 2021 draft from an Indiana high school, had been on a promising path. However, his last season included challenges as he struggled with Triple-A Charlotte, posting a batting average of .214 alongside 18 homers and 63 RBIs while striking out 164 times over 130 games.
“It was my first real struggle in baseball,” Montgomery acknowledged during the team’s winter fan festival. “Looking back, I realize that going through this experience has its benefits. Perfection isn’t realistic for a career; it’s about learning and growing.”
Montgomery admitted that he became overly focused on the prospect of joining the White Sox, which detracted from his ability to concentrate on his games.
“I learned that staying present and taking it one day at a time is crucial in this sport,” he added.
After the conclusion of the season, Montgomery participated in the Arizona Fall League for the second consecutive time. He notably excelled, hitting .313 with three home runs and 11 RBIs in just 11 games with the Glendale Desert Dogs.
Having been added to Chicago’s 40-man roster in November, Montgomery felt that adopting a more aggressive mindset at the plate in the AFL significantly benefited his performance.
“It required me to set aside my pride and ego, but ultimately, it proved to be an excellent decision,” he stated confidently.
