Friday night was a big night for the Kansas City Royals as they took the series opener from the defending National League champion Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park.
Leading the way for the Royals was shortstop and slugger Bobby Witt Jr.
Witt found himself in the conversation for the American League Rookie of the Year Award last fall.
On Friday, Witt hit his 20th home run of the season as the Royals won 7-5 over the Phillies.
In doing so, the young Royals shortstop reached a historic mark, becoming the first player in Major League history to hit 20 home runs and steal 30 bases in each of his first two seasons.
On Twitter, Royals announcer Joel Goldberg took note of this historic milestone.
Bobby Witt Jr did it again. Another homer. First player in MLB history with 20+HR 30+SB in each of his first two seasons
— Joel Goldberg (@goldbergkc) August 4, 2023
Witt led the way for the Royals as they pulled off a comeback win over the defending National League champs.
The 23-year-old had two hits against the Phillies on Friday.
His home run was a two-run shot in the top of the third inning to tie the game at two runs apiece.
Witt has already stolen 32 bases this season and has hit for a .270 average.
He also has posted an OPS of .788 this season.
But on Friday, he became the first player in the history of the game to accomplish the feat of 20 homers and 30 steals in each of his first two seasons.
It’s been a year to forget for the Royals, as they own a record of 36-75.
But Witt has had an impressive season, and he carried the Royals to a win on Friday.
NEXT: The Royals Are Suddenly Showing Life Amid A Nightmare Year
