Another White Sox prospect is one step from majors

The Chicago White Sox are not shy about promoting prospects. Already this season, the team has called up left-hander Noah Schultz and infielder Sam Antonacci. Now, another prospect is a step closer to making his big-league debut.

According to SoxMachine and Baseball America’s James Fegan, switch-hitting outfielder Braden Montgomery is joining the Triple-A Charlotte Knights after tearing it up at Double-A Birmingham. In 27 games, the 23-year-old hit .313 with a 1.035 OPS and six home runs. 

Montgomery is the last remaining prospect from the 2025 trade that sent left-hander Garrett Crochet to the Boston Red Sox to reach the majors. Catcher Kyle Teel, infielder Chase Meidroth and right-hander Wikelman González have already made their MLB debuts.

Will White Sox promote prospect Braden Montgomery?

A natural right fielder, Montgomery has played primarily in center field (14 games) instead of right field (eight). He is expected to see most of his time in center with the Knights. If he is called up, the White Sox could consider a platoon alongside outfielder Tristan Peters.

Peters and infielder/outfielder Luisangel Acuna have split time in center field this season. Peters has played 21 games with nine defensive runs saved, while Acuna has played 20 games and has eight defensive runs saved. 

Acuna hasn't hit well (.169 with a .417 OPS); Peters has performed better at the plate (.284 with a .670 OPS). However, Montgomery has more promise than both and would offer manager Will Venable versatility at the plate, as he's a switch-hitter. 

Venable recently referred to Montgomery as “dedicated” to his craft. 

"A really good player, really dedicated to his craft and the things he knows he needs to do on a daily basis to go out there and play good baseball,” Venable told MLB.com’s Scott Merkin. “So, really happy for him and proud of him for the work he’s put in."

The White Sox could also look to upgrade from outfielder Austin Hays in right field. A prime candidate to be traded because he's on a one-year deal ($6 million), Hays has hit .233 with a .576 OPS and missed time because of a hamstring injury. 

Hays’ struggles and injury potential could mean a call-up for Montgomery by the trade deadline Aug. 3 or earlier.