Texas A&M Coach Jim Schlossnagle Says All-American Braden Montgomery Out For The Season

Image credit: Texas A&M's Braden Montgomery (Photo by Eddie Kelly / ProLook Photos)

Texas A&M coach Jim Schlossnagle on Saturday said All-American right fielder Braden Montgomery is out for the season with a lower leg injury. Montgomery left Saturday’s super regional win against Oregon in the first inning after an injury to his right leg.

Montgomery, an All-American and projected top-10 draft pick, drew a first inning walk. He later attempted to score from second base and appeared to lose his footing as he prepared to dive for home. He was tagged out but stayed down on the play. After a lengthy delay, the A&M medical staff put an air cast on his right ankle and helped him off the field.

Montgomery was later shown on the TV broadcast back in the dugout, wearing street clothes and what looked to be a walking boot. After the game, he joined his teammates on crutches for the traditional signing of the Aggie War Hymn.

Montgomery’s loss is a significant blow to the A&M offense. He is the Aggies’ leading hitter and came into Saturday batting .322/.452/.733 with 27 home runs. His loss breaks up the outstanding top of the A&M lineup, as he typically hits in the three-hole behind Gavin Grahovac and Jace LaViollette. A&M is now one win away from advancing to the College World Series, but Montgomery’s loss does punt a dent in its offensive upside.

Montgomery was replaced in the game by sophomore Kaeden Kent, a utility player who has not started a game since May 10, but has now appeared in all four NCAA Tournament games for A&M. Kent went 1-for-4 Saturday.

Montgomery ranks fifth on the latest edition of the Top 500 draft prospects list. So, not only will Texas A&M fans be keeping a close eye on his status, so too will evaluators around MLB.