Bobby Witt Jr.: The Rising Star of the Kansas City Royals

The Kansas City Royals have been searching for a shortstop to anchor their infield for years, and it seems they have finally found their man in Bobby Witt Jr. The 21-year-old phenom has been making waves in the baseball world with his impressive skills and exciting playstyle. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Witt's journey to the majors, his current performance, and what the future holds for this talented young player.

Early Life and Career

Bobby Witt Jr. was born on June 14, 2000, in Colleyville, Texas. He grew up in a baseball-loving family and was drafted by the Kansas City Royals with the second overall pick in the 2019 MLB draft. Witt's father, Bobby Witt Sr., was also a professional baseball player who pitched in the majors for 16 seasons. The younger Witt's impressive high school career, which included being named the Gatorade Player of the Year, made him a highly touted prospect entering the draft.

Rise to the Majors

After being drafted, Witt reported to the Royals' minor league affiliate, where he quickly made a name for himself. He tore through the lower levels of the minors, showcasing his impressive hitting, fielding, and baserunning skills. In 2021, Witt made his major league debut, becoming one of the youngest players in the league. Although he struggled initially, he has since found his footing and is now an integral part of the Royals' lineup.

Current Performance

Witt's current performance has been impressive, to say the least. He has been hitting consistently, with a batting average of .270 and an on-base percentage of .310. His power numbers are also starting to come around, with 10 home runs and 30 RBIs in his first 50 games. Witt's defense has been stellar, with a fielding percentage of .980 and a range that allows him to make plays that other shortstops can only dream of.

ESPN Rankings and Projections

According to ESPN, Witt is currently ranked as the number two prospect in the Royals' organization. His projected stats for the 2023 season are impressive, with a predicted batting average of .280 and 20 home runs. Witt's ceiling is extremely high, with some scouts predicting he could become a perennial All-Star and one of the best shortstops in the league. Bobby Witt Jr. is an exciting young player who is sure to make a significant impact on the Kansas City Royals and the MLB as a whole. With his impressive skills, exciting playstyle, and high ceiling, Witt is a must-watch for baseball fans everywhere. As he continues to develop and grow as a player, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for this talented young shortstop. Be sure to keep an eye on Witt and the Royals as they look to make a push for the playoffs in the coming years.

Follow the latest news and updates on Bobby Witt Jr. and the Kansas City Royals on ESPN.