White Sox’s Middle Infield Future: A Deep Dive into Prospects and Potential

The Chicago White Sox are building for the future, and a significant part of that plan revolves around their burgeoning middle infield prospects. While veterans currently hold down the positions, a wave of young talent is poised to create an impact, creating a “good problem to have,” as farm director Paul Janish puts it. This article examines the current state of the White Sox’s middle infield pipeline, from those already making waves in the majors to the promising players developing in the minors.

Current Major League Presence

Colson Montgomery, the White Sox shortstop, has quickly turn into a focal point for the team’s rebuild. Arriving in July 2025, he showcased impressive power, hitting 21 home runs in 71 games – the best home run rate for a rookie shortstop in baseball history. Alongside him, Chase Meidroth transitioned to second base to accommodate Montgomery, reaching base 165 times, the third-most among American League rookies.

Top Prospects Ready to Challenge

The pipeline doesn’t stop with Montgomery and Meidroth. Several prospects are making significant strides and could soon join them in the majors.

• Caleb Bonemer: Ranked as the White Sox’s No. 3 prospect and MLB’s No. 61 Bonemer earned Single-A Carolina League MVP honors in his 2025 debut. He displayed a well-rounded game, slashing .281/.401/.473 with 12 home runs and 29 stolen bases in 107 games. Janish noted his impressive physical development and work ethic.
• Billy Carlson: A Top 100 Prospect (No. 73), Carlson was the No. 10 overall pick in the 2025 draft. Scouts praise his exceptional defensive skills at shortstop, though his offensive game is still developing. Janish emphasizes the importance of focusing on process over results for Carlson, believing his power potential is legitimate.
• Kyle Lodise: Lodise quickly advanced to High-A after being drafted in the second round in 2025.
• William Bergolla: Bergolla led Double-A Birmingham to a Southern League championship, demonstrating his ability to contribute to winning teams.

Other Intriguing Minor League Infielders

Beyond the top prospects, the White Sox have depth at the keystone position.

• Sam Antonacci: Antonacci ranked fourth in the Minors with a .429 on-base percentage in 2025 and continued to impress in the Arizona Fall League, Spring Training, and the World Baseball Classic. Janish highlights his impressive barrel control and hit tool.
• Javier Mogollon, Jeral Perez, and Ryan Burrowes: These players offer intriguing offensive upside at second base.
• Jacob Gonzalez: The White Sox still hold hope for 2023 first-rounder Jacob Gonzalez if he can improve his swing.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Draft and Positional Versatility

The White Sox also possess the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 Draft, with UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky currently considered the frontrunner for selection. Janish believes positional versatility will be key for these prospects, noting that even players like Fernando Tatis Jr. Have transitioned to different positions as their careers evolve.

Standout Performers in Camp

• Braden Montgomery: Acquired in the Garrett Crochet trade, Montgomery is showing significant potential in right field, going 8-for-23 (.348) with two triples and a home run in Cactus League action. Janish describes him as having “pure upside” and is working with him on swing decisions and strike-zone awareness.
• Jaden Fauske: Fauske is drawing comparisons to three-time All-Star Grady Sizemore and is showing promising development, mirroring the progress of Bonemer.
• Blake Larson: Recovering from Tommy John surgery, Larson possesses potential plus pitches and is expected to return to the mound early in the season.
• Anthony DePino: DePino set numerous records at Rhode Island and demonstrates a unique combination of power and plate discipline.

The Future is Bright

The White Sox’s investment in their middle infield prospects is starting to pay off. With a blend of established young players like Montgomery and Meidroth, and a deep pipeline of talent, the organization is building a foundation for a competitive future. The ability to develop versatile players who can contribute at multiple positions will be crucial as these prospects progress through the system and eventually reach the major leagues.