No. 16 prospect Montgomery picks up where he left off in P.R.

Benny Montgomery, the Colorado Rockies’ No. 16 prospect, is on a path to reclaim his position in the spotlight after a challenging year marked by injury. In a promising start to the 2024 season with Double-A Hartford, Montgomery showcased his talent before an unfortunate left shoulder injury sidelined him for the remainder of the year. In just 11 games, he made a significant impact, batting .283 with two home runs, four doubles, and 10 RBIs. These numbers reflected not just a solid performance but also the momentum he had built through a successful Arizona Fall League campaign, which concluded with him earning All-Star honors.

Montgomery’s journey began with high expectations. Selected as the Rockies’ top pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, he entered professional baseball with a reputation for both power and speed. His early career was marked by flashes of brilliance, and he quickly became a player to watch. However, the diving play that resulted in his shoulder injury on April 20 was a stark reminder of the fragility of athletic careers. It halted what seemed to be a breakout season, just as it was gaining steam.

In the aftermath of his injury, Montgomery remained optimistic. He viewed the summer as a period of perspective, one that reshaped his understanding of the game and his passion for it. “Those long days in the Minor Leagues in August, when you’re really worn out and tired and it takes everything you’ve got to get through the day, perspective has taught me to never feel that way again,” he said. This revelation underscored his renewed commitment to the game, a commitment that has been rekindled through rigorous rehabilitation and training.

After a year of recovery, Montgomery found his swing again while participating in instructional ball in Arizona. His focus was not solely on performance but also on rediscovering his love for the game. With the Puerto Rican Winter League approaching, where he will play for Leones de Ponce under Rockies assistant hitting coach Andy González, Montgomery is eager to re-establish himself on the field. He understands that this opportunity is crucial for his development and for showcasing his potential.

“My biggest emphasis in Puerto Rico is getting back into things,” he noted. “Of course, I want to get better, grow in the game. But I just want to play baseball.” This desire to simply enjoy playing underscores his perspective shift; after experiencing the physical and emotional toll of an injury, he is keen to embrace every moment on the field.

Montgomery’s ascent in the Minor Leagues has not been without scrutiny, particularly regarding his swing mechanics. Since entering professional baseball, he has faced questions about his approach at the plate. The concerns were partly rooted in the footage released during his draft announcement, which showed a swing that needed refinement. As a player known for his raw power, Montgomery has often had to contend with the narrative that he needed to overhaul his mechanics to reach his full potential.

The Rockies’ coaching staff, however, has been focused on developing his timing rather than making drastic changes to his swing. Nic Wilson, the Rockies’ hitting coordinator, emphasized that Montgomery possesses a dynamic swing with a leg lift and hand pump that, when synchronized correctly, allows him to make solid contact. “He’s always been a guy who has hit the ball hard,” Wilson explained, noting that Montgomery’s hard ground balls have begun to translate into extra-base hits. The coaching staff recognized the potential Montgomery had, even if injuries and timing issues had held him back in the past.

Montgomery himself has addressed the media’s scrutiny, expressing frustration at the misconceptions about his swing. “The media loves to rat on my swing, but it wasn’t a swing issue — I was just getting ready so late,” he explained. This insight reflects his growth as a player; he has developed a deeper understanding of his game and how to prepare effectively.

As he prepares for the upcoming season in Puerto Rico, Montgomery has made physical changes that will enhance his performance. Weighing in at 230 pounds, he has added muscle to his 6-foot-5 frame, which not only adds power to his swing but also increases his overall athleticism. This transformation indicates a commitment to his physical health, a crucial factor for a player who has faced injury challenges. Montgomery recognizes that staying on the field is paramount to proving his worth as a top prospect.

“I have zero doubt in my game — absolutely zero,” he asserted confidently. “I just need to stay on the field. Availability is the best ability.” His focus on controlling what he can to maintain his health speaks volumes about his maturity as an athlete. Montgomery understands that talent alone won’t secure his place in the Rockies’ future; he must also prioritize his physical fitness and mental resilience.

The 2024 season has been a pivotal one for Montgomery. His injury might have derailed his immediate plans, but it also offered him valuable insights that could shape his career. The time spent in rehabilitation, focusing on his swing, and understanding the game from a different perspective has equipped him with tools for future success. He is ready to harness this experience and apply it to his upcoming stint in the Puerto Rican Winter League.

As Montgomery looks forward to playing with Leones de Ponce, he carries with him a renewed sense of purpose and determination. This winter league experience is more than just a chance to play; it’s an opportunity to re-establish himself as a key player in the Rockies’ organization. His performance in Puerto Rico will likely be watched closely by scouts and coaches, as they evaluate whether he can translate his raw talent into consistent performance at the professional level.

The Rockies have high hopes for Montgomery’s future. As a player who has already demonstrated his capacity to perform under pressure and achieve accolades such as All-Star honors, his trajectory remains one to follow closely. The potential he possesses, combined with his growth mindset and newfound appreciation for the game, suggests that he could soon be making significant contributions to the Rockies’ roster.

However, Benny Montgomery is not just trying to reclaim his status; he is striving to exceed it. With the lessons learned from his injury and the motivation derived from his experiences, he is poised to take his career to new heights. The upcoming winter league season will serve as a proving ground for Montgomery, where he can showcase his skills and dedication. As he steps onto the field, fans and coaches alike will be watching, eager to see how he picks up where he left off and continues his journey in professional baseball.