Baseball fans, get ready for a Sunday night showdown that’s been a long time coming. The Tigers and Royals square off at 7:20 p.m. ET on Peacock and NBCSN, giving us a front-row seat to one of the game’s brightest young stars: Bobby Witt Jr.
In a division where every team is within 3.5 games of each other, the Royals have found their anchor. And my advice? Bet on the team with the best player on the field.
At just 25 years old, Witt is already in his fifth season—and he’s playing like a veteran legend. Since the start of 2023, only Aaron Judge has posted a higher fWAR (26.2). That’s elite company for a player who’s still early in his career.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing this year. “Bobby Baseball” didn’t hit his first home run until his 28th game—ending a 157-plate-appearance drought dating back to last season. Then, in typical Witt fashion, he followed it up with a walk-off three-run homer in the 10th inning the very next game. Talk about making an entrance.
The Royals stumbled out of the gate, winning just seven of their first 23 games. But since then, Kansas City has turned things around, going 10-5 in their last 15 contests. And guess who’s leading the charge? Over his last 13 games, Witt has posted a .956 OPS with four homers and 13 runs scored. In his first 22 games? Zero homers, a .715 OPS, and just four runs. It’s no coincidence the tide has turned.
Given his track record—85 home runs over three prior seasons—there’s no reason to think Witt won’t finish with at least 25 homers and 40 steals this year. His hard-hit rate is climbing, and he’s driving line drives with authority.
And then there’s the glove. Witt has already won two Gold Gloves, and he hasn’t made a single error this season. As of May 4, he was tied for the MLB lead in Outs Above Average (8) and had 7 Defensive Runs Saved. That’s the kind of defense that wins games—and championships.
If he keeps his wits about him and stays healthy, more individual hardware is almost a certainty. Speaking of Witt’s journey, it all started in the 2019 MLB Draft, where he was selected second overall—right behind Orioles catcher Adley Rutschman. That draft class is shaping up to be one for the ages, and Witt is proving he belongs at the top of the list.
So, when you tune in Sunday night, keep an eye on No. 7. He’s not just a player to watch—he’s a generational talent connecting baseball’s past, present, and future. And whether you’re rocking a Royals jersey or just love the game, you won’t want to miss it.
