Bobby Witt Jr. Makes History as First Shortstop with Multiple 30-30 Seasons
The Kansas City Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. has etched his name in baseball history by becoming the first shortstop to achieve multiple seasons with at least 30 home runs and 30 steals. Witt reached this milestone during Tuesday night’s game against the Detroit Tigers, swiping second base in the first inning.
Despite the Royals losing 3-1 in 10 innings, Witt’s achievement stands out. “It’s pretty special any time you get to be the first,” Witt commented, though he quickly shifted focus to the team’s next game.
This season, the 24-year-old has hit 31 homers, including a grand slam in the previous game, and has stolen 30 bases. Last season, he recorded an impressive 49 steals, marking him as a standout player. Notably, Witt is the only player in MLB history to record multiple 30-30 seasons within his first three years in the league.
His performance has not gone unnoticed. Royals pitcher Cole Ragans praised Witt, calling him “the best player in baseball” and highlighting his incredible talent and work ethic.
Witt, the second overall pick in the 2019 draft, signed an 11-year, $288 million deal with the Royals this offseason—the largest in franchise history. The contract includes a $7.77 million signing bonus, honoring his popular No. 7 jersey among fans.
Witt’s contributions have been pivotal in the Royals’ turnaround from a disappointing 106-loss season last year. He currently leads the majors with 200 hits, boasts a .332 batting average, and has scored 112 runs, a feat accomplished by only a handful of legends in baseball history.
His infectious enthusiasm has rejuvenated a franchise looking to reclaim its past glory. After back-to-back AL Pennants in 2014 and 2015, the Royals faced years of struggle but have found new hope under manager Matt Quatraro this season.
Witt’s star shone brightly during the Home Run Derby this summer, where he made it to the finals but narrowly lost to Teoscar Hernández. His journey has captivated Kansas City fans, who are eagerly watching his rise in the sport.