Colson Montgomery ready to turn historic rookie stretch into surge

White Sox shortstop looks to build on impressive debut season

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Colson Montgomery, the young shortstop for the Chicago White Sox, is poised to build on his historic rookie season where he blasted 21 home runs in just 71 games - the most by any primary shortstop in their first 71 career games. With the addition of Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, Montgomery and the White Sox's young core of hitters are expected to lead the team's offensive surge in 2026.

Why it matters

Montgomery's breakout rookie campaign has White Sox fans excited about the future of the franchise, as the team looks to return to the playoffs after a down year. His power and defensive prowess at shortstop could make him one of the league's top players if he can build on his impressive debut.

The details

In his first 71 MLB games, Montgomery set a record for home runs by a primary shortstop, showcasing impressive power to go along with a strong glove that earned him +6 Outs Above Average. He is projected to be the White Sox's best player in 2026, with a WAR of 2.7, leading a young core that also includes hitters Chase Meidroth, Miguel Vargas, Kyle Teel, and the newly acquired Munetaka Murakami.

  • Montgomery was called up to the majors on July 4, 2025.
  • Montgomery hit 21 home runs in 71 games during his rookie season.

The players

Colson Montgomery

The young shortstop for the Chicago White Sox who had a breakout rookie season in 2025, setting a record for home runs by a primary shortstop in their first 71 games.

Munetaka Murakami

The Japanese slugger who was recently acquired by the White Sox and is projected to be the team's second-best hitter in 2026.

Chase Meidroth

A young hitter in the White Sox's lineup who is projected for 2.1 WAR in 2026.

Miguel Vargas

A young hitter in the White Sox's lineup who is projected for 2.1 WAR in 2026.

Kyle Teel

A young hitter in the White Sox's lineup who is projected for 2.1 WAR in 2026.

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The takeaway

Colson Montgomery's historic rookie season has White Sox fans excited about the future of the franchise, as the young shortstop looks to lead a talented core of hitters that includes the newly acquired Munetaka Murakami. If Montgomery can build on his impressive debut, he could emerge as one of the league's top players and help propel the White Sox back to the playoffs.