Bobby Witt Jr: Why the Young Superstar Will Win 2024 AL MVP

By Jocelyn Alano May 06, 2024 13:40

Bobby Witt Jr, the 23-year-old shortstop for the Kansas City Royals, has been making waves in the MLB with his exceptional skills, both on and off the field. Let's take a closer look at why Bobby Witt Jr is a strong contender for the 2024 AL MVP award.

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Rising to Stardom

Bobby Witt Jr, born on June 14, 2000, in Colleyville, TX, has quickly cemented himself as one of the top shortstops in the MLB. His journey to the big leagues began when he was drafted by the Kansas City Royals in 2019, and he made his debut on April 7, 2022. Hailing from a baseball lineage – his father, Bobby Witt Sr., pitched in the Majors for 16 seasons – Witt Jr. brings a maturity and understanding of the game that belies his young age.

Exceptional Talent on the Field

Witt Jr's performance on the field has been nothing short of remarkable. In the 2024 regular season, he boasts an impressive .319 batting average with 4 home runs, 19 RBIs, and an outstanding 11 stolen bases, contributing to a remarkable .926 OPS. These statistics are further complemented by his career regular season numbers, including a .271 batting average, 54 home runs, 195 RBIs, and 90 stolen bases, with a .786 OPS.

In addition to his batting prowess, Witt Jr. has showcased remarkable defensive skills, with a sprint speed that leads the Majors and an exceptional average home-to-first time, making him a force to be reckoned with on the basepaths.

2024 Season: A Strong Start

The 2024 season has seen Witt Jr. continue his stellar performance, slashing .306/.351/.537 with four home runs and nine stolen bases, solidifying his position as a key player for the upstart Kansas City Royals. Witt Jr's contributions have been pivotal in the Royals' surprising emergence as a playoff contender, with the team currently holding one of the three wild card spots and trailing the AL-best Cleveland Guardians by just three games in the Central division.

Off the Field: Embracing the Game and Fans

Beyond his on-field prowess, Witt Jr. has also endeared himself to fans through his genuine love for the game. Known for taking photos and signing autographs for fans and kids, he embodies the spirit of Major League Baseball, making the experience of watching him play both fun and entertaining. His humility and dedication to the sport have garnered him a strong fan base and elevated his status as a role model for aspiring baseball players.

Contract Extension: Securing His Future

Before the start of the 2024 season, Witt Jr. signed an 11-year contract worth an impressive $288.7 million, with the potential to reach $377 million, showcasing the Royals' commitment to securing their homegrown star for the long term. This substantial extension reflects the confidence the organization has in Witt Jr.'s abilities and underscores his value as a cornerstone player for the Royals.

Candidacy for MVP

In conclusion, Bobby Witt Jr.'s exceptional performance on the field, coupled with his genuine passion for the game and his strong connection with fans, positions him as a leading contender for the 2024 AL MVP award. With his remarkable talent, maturity beyond his years, and unwavering commitment to the sport, Witt Jr. has undoubtedly solidified his place as a standout player in the MLB, and his journey is undoubtedly one to watch as the 2024 season unfolds.