The Chicago White Sox kicked off their postseason run by taking down the Houston Astros 6-3 in Houston during Game 1 of the AL Wild Card series, and holy smokes, Colson Montgomery dropped a bomb that actually broke MLB history. We’re talking about a slump-busting homer to straightaway center field that felt like it came out of nowhere, but in the best way possible.
Worst Slump Ever? Montgomery Just Shook the Record Books
So, get this: Jayson Stark over at The Athletic started digging around, wondering “What’s the record for worst season-ending slump by a player who then hit a home run in that postseason?” And guess who popped up at number one? Yep, Colson Montgomery. Because of course he did! This dude rolled into the postseason having gone a brutal 4-for-65 at the plate, punching out 36 times, which also landed him the all-time single-season strikeout record. Thirty-six K’s in 65 at-bats? That’s rough, buddy.
But then, Montgomery steps up in his first postseason game, and BAM! Home run. STATS Performed’s Sam Hovland confirmed it too, saying Montgomery’s pre-postseason slide was the absolute worst for any player who then managed to hit a postseason dinger. Think about it, the second-worst was Pat Sheridan back in ’87, who went 5-for-65. Montgomery was even worse! It’s one of those obscure MLB records that might just stand forever, but it makes his one swing all the more incredible.
The Homer That Changed Everything (For One Game, At Least)
That absolute rocket from Montgomery wasn’t just a feel-good moment, it put the White Sox up 4-0. And wouldn’t you know it, that ended up being the game-winning run in their 6-3 victory. From setting the all-time single-season strikeout record to hitting the game-winning homer in Game 1 of the postseason? You can’t make this stuff up! Talk about clutch when it mattered most, dude went from ice cold to absolute fire in a single swing.
Now, Montgomery and the White Sox gotta keep that energy going. They’re back at it for Game 2 against the Astros. A series win here would mean they get to host at least one home playoff game, which would be huge for their fans. Let’s see if Montgomery can keep that bat hot and avoid another historic slump!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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