Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. had an outstanding month of July, putting up some impressive numbers that had baseball fans and analysts taking notice. In just 23 games, Witt managed to accumulate 44 hits, eight doubles, a triple, seven home runs, 22 RBI, and 26 runs, all while hitting .489/.520/.833 with a remarkable 1.353 OPS. These numbers solidify his place as a key player for the Royals and a strong contender for the MVP award.
Witt’s performance in July is just a continuation of his success throughout the season. With a batting average of .349, 30 doubles, 10 triples, 19 home runs, 76 RBI, and 91 runs, as well as a 7.0 WAR, Witt leads the majors in hits, runs, average, and WAR. His consistent improvement from his debut in 2022 to now is evident in his stats, showing growth in all areas of his game, from hitting to defense.
At only 24 years old, Witt has already established himself as a five-tool superstar with a bright future ahead of him. The Royals recognized his potential and secured him with a long-term deal worth $148.78 million through 2030, with additional player and team options that could extend the contract all the way to 2037. Witt’s trajectory points towards a promising career that could potentially see him reach legendary status in the Royals franchise.
While Witt’s MVP candidacy is gaining traction, he faces stiff competition from the likes of Aaron Judge, the 2022 MVP winner. The contrasting backgrounds of the Royals and the Yankees add an interesting dynamic to the MVP race, showcasing the talent and diversity present in Major League Baseball.
As Witt continues to shine on the field, his journey from rookie to breakout star to MVP frontrunner is a testament to his hard work and dedication. With each season, he has shown significant improvement in all aspects of his game, making him a force to be reckoned with in the league.
The possibility of Witt following in the footsteps of Royals legend George Brett, who is the only player in franchise history to win the MVP award, is a storyline worth following. While the road to achieving such a feat is long, Witt’s potential and determination are evident in his performance on the field. As the Royals push for a playoff spot with Witt leading the charge, the conversation around his MVP candidacy continues to grow, solidifying his status as one of the premier players in the league.