The Chicago White Sox got a midseason lift in 2025 with the arrival of their top prospect, Colson Montgomery. His performance quickly justified the hype surrounding him. While he didn't turn the season into a playoff push, he certainly brought some excitement, playing in 71 games and posting a .239/.311/.529 line with 21 homers and 55 RBIs.
Now, add Munetaka Murakami to the mix. Signed to a two-year deal in the offseason, Murakami and Montgomery form a duo that pitchers will need to keep a close eye on.
Murakami and Montgomery: A Power Duo to Watch
Murakami was a hot commodity in free agency, having built an impressive resume in Japan with two Central League MVPs, a Triple Crown, multiple All-Star appearances, and leading the league in home runs twice. His transition to the MLB with the White Sox offers a fresh challenge, but his potential for a standout debut is undeniable.
The big question is: who will lead the White Sox in home runs? According to Joel Reuter from Bleacher Report, it could be a toss-up between Murakami and the emerging Montgomery. Despite concerns about Murakami's potential strikeout rate, his power is unquestionable, making a 30-homer season a real possibility.
Montgomery, on the other hand, was a standout in the latter half of last season. His 21 home runs were bested only by big names like Kyle Schwarber, Shohei Ohtani, Cal Raleigh, and Junior Caminero. If Montgomery continues his upward trajectory, the White Sox can feel confident with him anchoring the shortstop position.
In short, the South Side has a power struggle brewing, and it’s one that fans will eagerly watch unfold. Whether it’s Murakami's debut fireworks or Montgomery's continued rise, the White Sox are poised for some electrifying performances.