Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. had a message for Yankees superstar Aaron Judge.
Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. continues to prove he belongs among baseball’s elite. As the 25‑year‑old prepares for another major‑league season, he also had the opportunity over the past two weeks to represent the United States on the international stage at the World Baseball Classic. Along the way, Witt made it clear just how much respect he has for fellow superstar Aaron Judge.
Witt and Judge have developed a strong mutual admiration in recent years. The two have both finished in the top-five of American League MVP voting in each of the last two seasons, cementing themselves as two of the best players in the game.
While they compete in different markets, Judge with the New York Yankees and Witt with Kansas City, their paths have crossed often through postseason matchups and international competition.
During an appearance on MLB Network while representing Team USA, Witt was asked about Judge’s praise of him as a player and offered a thoughtful message in response.
“It is an honor. How he works, who he is as an individual both on and off the field, is special,” Witt said when asked how it felt to hear Judge call him one of the best players in the game on an MLB Network appearance.
The respect between the two supertars only grew through their shared experience with Team USA at the World Baseball Classic. Both players attempted to help lead the Americans to a championship, but the team ultimately fell short in the finals against Venezuela.
Despite the loss, the tournament further showcased Witt’s emergence as one of baseball’s brightest young players. Already entering his fifth MLB season, the former second overall pick in the 2019 draft has spent his entire career with the Royals and continues building an impressive individual legacy.
Witt is already a Gold Glove winner, Silver Slugger, All‑Star and a Platinum Glove recipient. He has also captured a batting title and remains one of the most impactful all-around players in the league with his combination of power, speed and defense.
Last season was another impressive campaign. Witt posted a .295 batting average, .351 on‑base percentage, .852 OPS, 23 home runs and 88 RBIs. He also added 38 stolen bases.
With both players locked into long‑term contracts with their respective franchises, Witt and Judge are unlikely to ever become teammates in MLB. Still, both players clearly respect each other and have built a bond during their time at the WBC.