Spring training is here, and with it, the anticipation for another thrilling Major League Baseball season builds. While the Kansas City Royals' faithful focused on their Cactus League opener against Texas, some intriguing insights emerged from camp that deserve attention.
Manager Matt Quatraro made waves with a bold comparison involving his franchise superstar, Bobby Witt Jr. Quatraro likened Witt's athletic prowess to that of former MVP Josh Hamilton. While acknowledging their physical differences, Quatraro highlighted Witt's remarkable athleticism, reminiscent of Hamilton's prime.
"The athleticism, it's not the body type or anything, but reminds me of Josh Hamilton," Quatraro shared with the media. "A guy that can just run, hit for power, has a cannon of an arm."
Hamilton, despite a relatively short nine-year career, left an indelible mark on the game. Across 1,027 games with the Reds, Rangers, and Angels, he launched 200 home runs, drove in 701 runs, and boasted a .290/.349/.516 slash line with a 127 wRC+.
His five-year stretch with Texas from 2008 to 2012 was spectacular, featuring multiple All-Star appearances and Silver Slugger awards. His 2010 MVP season was a standout, with 32 home runs, 100 RBIs, and a .359/.411/.633 slash line.
Bobby Witt Jr. has already made his mark with historic numbers. His 2024 AL MVP runner-up season saw him slash .332/.389/.588, hit 32 home runs, and drive in 109 runs, earning a 169 wRC+.
What sets Witt apart is his extraordinary athleticism, making him a perennial 30+ stolen base threat and a defensive wizard at shortstop. His recent season featured a Platinum Glove-worthy 24 OAA and a 20 FRV.
Quatraro praised Witt's exceptional play at shortstop, emphasizing the body control required for the position. "He plays a premium position and does it exceptionally well," Quatraro noted. "He's remarkable."
As 2026 unfolds, Witt faces a defining year. The Royals aim to rebound and make a postseason push, and Witt's continued excellence could be the key. Royals fans are eager to see if Witt can capture the elusive MVP title, a feat his comparison, Hamilton, achieved in his day.