It's Official: Top Prospect To Start Year With KC Royals

It was never in doubt. But now it's official. The Kansas City Royals will be opening the season with baseball's top prospect at third base. The Bobby Witt Jr. era has begun. 

Lifelong dream came true today! It’s go time! #TogetherRoyal https://t.co/rbkqrAqOek

— Bobby Witt Jr (@BwittJr) April 5, 2022

"Lifelong dream came true today! It’s go time!" tweeted Witt.

Bobby Witt Jr. was called in Mike Matheny’s office. He found Whit Merrifield, Andrew Benintendi and Salvador Perez waiting to welcome him to the big leagues.

“Tears came to my eyes,” the Royals 3B said. #Royals

— Josh Vernier (@JoshVernier610) April 5, 2022

His ascension to big league status has fans drooling. His 2021 season in the minors did nothing to dispel the notion, either. He hit .290 with a .361 on-base and a .575 slugging, with 33 homers and 29 steals at Double-A and Triple-A. He fell just one rained-out game short of becoming the Minor Leagues’ ninth 30-30 player since 2000 (he had an SB in the game that was eventually called due to rain).

He has plus power, plus speed and a plus arm. The 21-year-old has the potential to be a superstar. Royals manager Mike Matheny said of Witt, "He just knows how to go about his business. He’s one of those guys. He’s very rare.”

Normally a shortstop, Witt will man third base for the Royals, at least to start his career, while Adalberto Mondesi still owns short. 

Witt is the first Royal to land among the Top 3 prospects in baseball since Alex Gordon in 2007. He's the son of 16-year major league pitcher Bobby Witt.