Even though he slashed just .167/.167/.333 during the season’s first three games, it’s clear that Kansas City Royals infielder Bobby Witt Jr. is a special player.
The best part is that we have seen how he can impact a major league game in several ways.
He has two extra-base hits already, both doubles, and judging by his minor league performance (we will get there in a minute), the homers should come.
He already has flashed the leather, with this “Play of the Year” candidate.
#1-ranked rookie Bobby Witt Jr. with an early entry for MLB Play of the Year! pic.twitter.com/qZugFm58DT
— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) April 9, 2022
That happened on Saturday, and it helped save a run in a tight extra inning.
Now, he is showing he can run, too.
“.@BwittJr shows off his wheels,” the league’s official site tweeted.
Witt is shown stealing a base during Monday’s game, taking an excellent jump from the pitcher and the catcher and comfortably beating the throw.
.@BwittJr shows off his wheels. pic.twitter.com/ODwVWTbv1a
— MLB (@MLB) April 11, 2022
Witt Is One Of The Most Complete Prospects In Baseball
Witt is an early AL Rookie of the Year candidate, and is considered by MLB Pipeline as the best prospect in baseball.
He has a phenomenal hit tool and even more raw (and game) power, so his offense is elite for a prospect.
As a natural shortstop with good instincts and evident athleticism, he seems overqualified for third base, the position he is currently playing because shortstop is taken in the organization.
He has a solid arm, and can run, too.
Last year, between Double-A and Triple-A, Witt hit 33 home runs and stole 29 bags.
In Double-A, he slashed .295/.369/.570, and his line in Triple-A was equally impressive, at .285/.352/.581.
There is a chance he slumps and disappoints in 2022: after all, he is just a 21-year-old kid.
But he seems ready for primetime.
NEXT: Bobby Witt Jr. Making Royals History Upon His Debut