While the St. Louis Cardinals drafted ASU catcher Ryan Campos earlier on Monday, the Atlanta Braves selected Sun Devils catcher Nick Montgomery No. 161 overall in the fifth round of the 2024 MLB Draft.
Montgomery has completed his senior year at Cypress High School in California and is slated to start as a freshman at Arizona State for the upcoming season, according to ASU’s website.
Although there is limited information available about him, Montgomery is recognized as a power hitter who maximizes his 6-foot-4, 210-pound frame on offense.
MLB.com’s analysis notes that while Montgomery is improving his overall game, he may transition away from the catcher position due to his size and defensive capabilities.
“At 6-foot-4, Montgomery is a presence from the right side of the plate,” the report stated. “He has plenty of raw power to tap into and has demonstrated this against strong competition, including at the Area Code Games. He employs a small leg kick for timing, and although his swing can be lengthy and he sometimes opens up too soon, he has generally made good contact against quality pitching, both last summer and during his senior season.
“It remains uncertain if Montgomery can remain a catcher long-term. He has a strong arm and some receiving skills, but his size might push him to first base or possibly a corner outfield position. Regardless of where he plays, his bat could make him a valuable pick for Arizona State on Day 2 of the draft.”
With multiple pathways for his development, it remains to be seen if Montgomery will stick with his commitment to Arizona State or sign professionally with the Braves and begin his minor league career.
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Another Freshman Added to 2025 Gym Devil Roster
Sun Devil Gymnastics has signed incoming freshman Halle Braaflat from Fargo, North Dakota, to add depth to its 2025 team.
Braaflat had previously committed to Georgia, but she is now coming to Tempe. She trained at American Gold Gymnastics in North Dakota, where sophomore Gym Devil Halle Gregoire had previously trained. She is a two-time national qualifier, having won the all-around and beam events at the 2023 North Dakota State Meet. In 2024, she won two all-around titles, two beam titles, as well as vault and floor.
Her parents are Kari and Jeff, and she has two siblings: Kaden and Brynn.
Braaflat will join three other Gym Devil freshmen on the 2025 roster: Nina Laurito, Tiara Platkin, and Jenna Timmons.
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