The Royals' young shortstop has become the first player in MLB history to have multiple seasons with at least 30 homers and 30 steals in his first three years, leading Kansas City back into the playoff race.
Bobby Witt Jr. has etched his name into Major League Baseball history as the first shortstop to record multiple seasons with at least 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases. The 24-year-old Royals superstar achieved this rare feat when he swiped second base in the first inning of Tuesday night's game against the Detroit Tigers.
Witt's combination of power and speed has been a driving force behind the Royals' resurgence this season. He entered Tuesday's game with 31 homers, including a grand slam in Monday night's series opener, while also amassing 30 steals. Last season, he became the first player in major league history to swipe 49 bases in a season.
Bobby Witt Jr.'s Historic 30-30 Season Propels Royals' Playoff Hopes
In addition to his historic 30-30 seasons, Witt has also emerged as a top contender for the American League MVP award. He leads the majors with 200 hits, a .332 batting average, and 112 runs scored. Only four players have ever finished a season leading in all three categories: Nap Lajoie (1901), Ty Cobb (1911 and 1915), Stan Musial (1952), and Rod Carew (1977).
Witt's journey to stardom began as the second overall pick in the 2019 first-year player draft. He signed an 11-year, $288.7 million contract with the Royals in the offseason, the largest deal in franchise history. His No. 7 jersey has become a symbol of hope for Kansas City fans, who have packed Kauffman Stadium during the team's playoff chase.
Under second-year manager Matt Quatraro, the Royals have rebounded from a 106-loss season in 2021. They currently occupy a wild-card spot in the American League, with a chance of catching Cleveland for the division lead. Witt's historic season has been a major catalyst for their turnaround.
The young shortstop has also brought an infectious enthusiasm to a team that was sorely in need of it. The Royals won back-to-back AL Pennants in 2014 and 2015, along with their first World Series title in 30 years. However, they were unable to sustain that success and quickly returned to mediocrity.
Witt's emergence as a superstar has rekindled the passion of Royals fans. His coming-out party came during the Home Run Derby at the All-Star Game in July, where he reached the finals before losing to Teoscar Hernández of the Dodgers in a dramatic showdown.
Bobby Witt Jr. is a rare talent who has brought hope back to the Kansas City Royals. His historic 30-30 season has not only solidified his place as one of the best young players in baseball but has also ignited the team's playoff aspirations.
