Bobby Witt Jr. is seeing a change at Kansas City Royals spring training.
The Kansas City Royals are continuing to fine‑tune their lineup during spring training, and one of the most notable developments involves where their best player will hit. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, manager Matt Quatraro is already experimenting with ways to maximize offensive production, particularly when it comes to superstar Bobby Witt Jr.
Witt is not only the face of the franchise but one of the top players in baseball just four years into his career. A two‑time All‑Star, two‑time Gold Glove winner, two‑time Silver Slugger, batting champion and Platinum Glove recipient, he has established himself as one of the most complete players in the sport.
In 2025, Witt delivered another elite season, hitting .295 with a .351 on‑base percentage and an .852 OPS. He added 23 home runs, 88 RBIs and 38 stolen bases across 157 games while leading MLB in hits with 184 and doubles with 47.
With that level of production, where Witt hits in the lineup carries major significance for the Royals’ offensive outlook and Quatraro is considering making a change, potentially bumping Witt to the leadoff spot.
“Bobby Witt Jr. is hitting leadoff today. Manager Matt Quatraro said he's ‘pretty sure’ Witt is going to hit leadoff for Team USA, so he wanted to let Witt get used to it before he leaves. Also gives the Royals an idea of what it could look like if they do it in the regular season,” reported Anne Rogers of MLB.com on X.
The decision reflects both short‑term and long‑term thinking. In the immediate future, Witt is preparing to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic, where he is expected to hit leadoff in a lineup loaded with star talent. Getting comfortable in that role now allows him to adjust his approach before facing elite international competition.
At the same time, this experiment could have lasting implications for Kansas City. Moving Witt to the leadoff spot would guarantee their most dynamic offensive player receives the most plate appearances over the course of a season. His combination of speed, contact ability and emerging power makes him an ideal candidate to set the tone at the top of the order.
For a Royals team looking to take a step forward, finding ways to maximize Witt’s impact is essential. If he thrives in the leadoff role during both the World Baseball Classic and spring training, it could become a permanent change that reshapes the team’s offensive identity heading into 2026.