White Sox Weigh Options for Center Field Future

Luisangel Acuña and Braden Montgomery compete to fill void left by Luis Robert Jr.'s departure

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

The Chicago White Sox face uncertainty in center field after losing Luis Robert Jr. in the offseason. Prospects Luisangel Acuña and Braden Montgomery are vying to become the team's long-term starter, with both players offering potential but also questions about their readiness to contribute at the MLB level.

Why it matters

Securing a reliable center fielder is a critical priority for the White Sox as they look to enhance their competitiveness in the coming years. The development of Acuña and Montgomery will directly shape the team's outfield and overall lineup construction.

The details

Luisangel Acuña, who maintained a .283 batting average in the minors last season, remains in the conversation to start in center field. Meanwhile, Braden Montgomery, the White Sox's 9th overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, is viewed as a potential star who could soon challenge for playing time. The White Sox are closely evaluating both players as they reassess their roster following major offseason moves.

  • The 2023 MLB season is approaching, with the White Sox's center field situation a key focus heading into the new year.

The players

Luisangel Acuña

A White Sox prospect who had a solid minor league season, maintaining a .283 batting average, and is in the running to become the team's starting center fielder.

Braden Montgomery

The White Sox's 9th overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, who is seen as a potential star and could soon challenge for playing time in center field.

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What’s next

As the new season approaches, the White Sox and their fans will closely monitor the progress of Acuña and Montgomery, with the team's long-term center field plans hinging on their development.

The takeaway

The White Sox's center field situation is a critical priority as the team looks to enhance its competitiveness in the coming years. The performances of prospects Luisangel Acuña and Braden Montgomery will directly shape the team's outfield and overall lineup construction.