The number one prospect in baseball is set to make his major league debut Thursday. Bobby Witt Jr. was officially informed he’d be breaking Spring Training with the Kansas City Royals and will slot in as the club’s starting third baseman.
Selected 2nd overall in the 2019 MLB draft, Witt is billed as a 5 tool player with a rare blend of speed and power. The son of former Major League pitcher Bobby Witt, Jr. signed the largest bonus ever given to a prep position player in draft history.
The 21 year old split time between Double A Northwest Arkansas and Triple A Omaha last year, while swatting 33 homers with 29 stolen bags in 123 games. Witt Jr. wound up leading the minors in extra base hits with 72 last season as well.
The Texas native forced the Royals hand by tearing the cover off the ball during Spring Training this year. Witt Jr. hit .406, with 3HRs, 11 runs, 8 RBIs and 2 stolen bases in 32 at-bats.
Manager Mike Matheny and GM JJ Picollo informed the righty he had made the team on Tuesday. “All the guys were congratulating me,” Witt told reporters. “I can’t really put words to the feeling how it was. My stomach sank. Tears came to my eyes. It’s something I’ll never forget.”
The uber talented prospect is a natural shortstop, however will slide over to third base as the Royals have a need at the hot corner, and have Adalberto Mondesi currently under contract at short. Mondesi, 26, is arbitration eligible in 2023 before becoming a UFA in 2024.
Witt Jr. opens the year as a heavy betting favourite to earn the AL Rookie of the Year award at +280. He’s followed by Tigers slugger Spencer Torkelson +500, Mariners outfielder Julio Rodriguez +550, and Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman +700 at various sportsbooks.
Baseball’s top prospect will make his debut at home against the Cleveland Guardians at 4:10pm ET.