In 2023, Kansas City Royals lHe played 106 games and finished with the second-worst record in baseball.
Fast forward to 2024 and the Royals finished second in the American League Central and advanced to the American League Division Series. With some money spent in free agency on guys like Michael Wacha and Seth Lugo, the Royals took a huge step forward. However, no piece was as important to the team’s success as superstar shortstop Bobby Witt Jr.
Already one of baseball’s best players, Witt Jr. won both a Gold Glove Award and a Silver Slugger Award, making baseball history.
Per Sarah Langs of MLB.com, who wrote the following in an annual review:
On September 17, Witt became the first shortstop in MLB history with multiple seasons of at least 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases. He is the first player with multiple 30-30 seasons during his age-24 season. Witt is only the eighth player to post at least two consecutive 30-30 seasons, joining Ryan Braun (2011-12), Alfonso Soriano (2005-06, 2002-03), Vladimir Guerrero Sr. (2001-02), Barry Bonds (1995-1997), Ron Gant (1990-1991), Bobby Bonds (1977-1978) and Willie Meis (1956-1957).
12 players who achieved major milestones in 2024 by @SlangsOnSports for @MLB: Every season is a new opportunity for MLB’s… https://t.co/HDk4VY8LfY
— New York BBWAA (@NYBBWAA) December 25, 2024
In addition, Witt Jr. hit .332 to win the American League batting title. He had 32 home runs, 109 RBI and 45 doubles and led the majors in hits with 211. Witt Jr. added 31 stolen bases and finished second in the American League MVP race, ahead of Juan Soto and behind Aaron Judge.
Witt Jr. also made his first All-Star Game and looks like he will be one of the best players in the game for years to come.
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