White Sox Promote Top Hitting Prospect To Double-A

Despite another series loss to the Cubs, the White Sox received a promising jolt to their future this afternoon. Top outfield prospect Braden Montgomery has reportedly been promoted to the Double-A Birmingham Barons, per James Fegan of SoxMachine.

Montgomery's Eventful Year

Montgomery, 22, has had an eventful calendar year. Drafted 12th overall by the Red Sox in 2024, he was dealt to the White Sox in the blockbuster Garrett Crochet trade just months later. Now the #2 prospect in the White Sox organization and the #26 overall prospect in MLB per MLB Pipeline, the switch-hitting outfielder began the campaign with the Low-A Kannapolis Cannon Ballers. He quickly proved he was too good for that level, hitting .304/.393/.493 in 18 games before getting promoted to the High-A Winston Salem Dash in late April. 

Montgomery's numbers have tailed off slightly against better competition, but he was not bad with the Dash by any means. In 69 games, he hit .260/.348/.445 with 17 doubles, three triples, and eight home runs. He also walked at an 11% clip while putting up a strong 132 wRC+. Montgomery mainly played center and right field with the Dash, thanks to his 70-grade arm strength per scouting reports. He also represented the White Sox in the 2025 Futures Game during All-Star Weekend.

Rapid Rise

Double-A will be Montgomery's third different minor league level this season alone. It appears that the White Sox will fast-track him to the majors as soon as possible. He will likely spend the rest of the season with the Barons, and depending on how things play out, he could open the 2026 season with the Triple-A Charlotte Knights. He could even be in contention for an Opening Day roster spot if he stands out in spring training. An MLB debut sometime in 2026 now seems likely.

White Sox Youth Movement Gaining Steam

It has been a very successful year for the White Sox youth movement. Edgar Quero, Kyle Teel, Chase Meidroth, Colson Montgomery, Grant Taylor, Shane Smith, and Wikelman González have all made their MLB debuts this season, and Braden Montgomery looks to be one of the next reinforcements coming soon. With his rare blend of power, patience, and arm strength, he could be one of the next cornerstones of the White Sox rebuild. He is an ideal candidate to land a starting outfield spot in Chicago sooner rather than later.