Royals‘ Bobby Witt Jr. Reflects on All-Star Rise, Off-Field Passions
KANSAS CITY, MO – Bobby Witt Jr., the electrifying shortstop for the Kansas City Royals, is rapidly ascending to baseball superstardom, blending remarkable on-field performance with a surprisingly refined palate for sushi and a deep appreciation for Kansas City barbecue. The 24-year-old, recently named to his second consecutive All-Star team, is not only a key player in the Royals’ rebuilding efforts but also a rising face of the game, captivating fans with his dynamic play and relatable personality.
Witt’s emergence as a premier talent is particularly significant for Kansas City, a city hungry for a return to competitive baseball. His success provides a beacon of hope for a franchise undergoing a strategic overhaul, and his growing popularity is injecting excitement into a passionate fanbase. Beyond the diamond, Witt’s interests offer a glimpse into the personality of a young athlete navigating the pressures of professional sports while staying grounded in his passions.
Born into baseball royalty – his father, Bobby Witt Sr., played 16 seasons in MLB – Witt Jr. always felt the weight of expectation. “Growing up, it was always baseball, baseball, baseball,” he told The Athletic in a recent interview. “But my dad always told me to be myself, to find things I enjoy outside of the game.” That advice resonated, leading Witt to explore his culinary interests.
Surprisingly, sushi has become a staple in Witt’s diet, particularly during road trips. “I didn’t even like sushi at first,” he admitted. “But I tried it, and now I’m obsessed. It’s a good, healthy meal, and it’s easy to get on the road.” He favors spicy tuna rolls and California rolls, often seeking out highly-rated sushi restaurants in every city the Royals visit.
However, his culinary loyalties firmly remain with his adopted home.Witt is a devoted fan of Kansas City barbecue, frequently visiting local establishments to sample the city’s renowned smoked meats. “There’s nothing like Kansas City BBQ,” he declared. “It’s the best in the country, hands down. I love Arthur Bryant’s, Gates, Q39… I try to hit them all.”
On the field, Witt is demonstrating the five-tool talent that made him the No. 2 overall pick in the 2019 MLB draft. Through July 21, 2024, he’s batting .279 with 15 home runs and 44 RBIs, while also showcasing his defensive prowess with a.978 fielding percentage. His speed is a constant threat on the basepaths, with 21 stolen bases already this season.
“He’s a special player,” Royals manager Matt Quatraro said. “He has the ability to impact the game in so many ways. And he’s still learning and improving. The sky’s the limit for him.”
Witt’s continued growth will be crucial to the Royals’ long-term success. As the team continues to build around its young core,Witt’s leadership and performance will be instrumental in bringing winning baseball back to Kansas City. for now, he’s focused on enjoying the journey, one sushi roll and barbecue plate at a time.
