How will Bobby Witt Jr. perform in the World Baseball Classic?
Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. was part of Team USA's World Baseball Classic run in 2023 that saw the squad fall short in the championship against Team Japan. Witt took a backseat to other stars in the '23 tournament, but he received valuable experience nonetheless. Now, heading into the 2026 World Baseball Classic, Witt is among the best players on Team USA's roster.
With the added responsibility comes more pressure. Playing in Kansas City with the small-market Royals is one thing, but Witt is going to be handling duties at a premier position in shortstop while likely batting leadoff for Team USA over the next few weeks. All eyes will be on Witt, so how will he respond?
It is worth mentioning that Team USA's 15-1 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday was only an exhibition game in preparation for the Classic. Regardless, there was pressure on Team USA baseball. The game was broadcast by ESPN and fans around the sports world were checking in to see if the squad was ready to meet the lofty expectations.
Sure enough, Witt was hitting leadoff and playing shortstop. The 25-year-old was in the same lineup with future Hall of Famers Aaron Judge and Bryce Harper, yet Witt appeared to be confident and poised. He went 2-3 at the plate, setting the table for Team USA at the top of the lineup.
Witt got on base in the first inning before Judge later delivered with a two-run single, driving in Witt and Harper.
That is exactly what Team USA manager Mark DeRosa is looking for with Witt batting leadoff. He's a guy who can get on base, steal a bag, and score a run. Of course, the Royals star is more than capable of hitting the ball over the fence as well.
Bobby Witt Jr. Prepared for the Big Moments
Sure, an exhibition game offers a different environment than a potential WBC championship contest. Nevertheless, Witt played well and proved that he belongs at the top of the Team USA lineup.
He has been establishing himself as not just a good player, but one of the best players in the sport for the past couple of years. While many baseball fans know how talented Witt is, it's possible that some have overlooked him because he plays in a smaller market.
Well, everyone is going to know Bobby Witt Jr.'s name after the 2026 World Baseball Classic.