Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. on pace to have stat line last accomplished in 19th Century

During the 1896 season, outfielder Jesse Burkett led the National League in games played, runs scored and hits while playing for the Cleveland Spiders.

Although the Spiders would be contracted a few years later, that 1896 team had three future Hall of Famers: pitcher Cy Young and outfielders Bobby Wallace and Burkett.

That 1896 season was the best of Burkett’s career. He led the National League in batting average (.410), hits (240), runs scored (160), at-bats (586), plate appearances (647) and games played (133).

It may seem odd to be talking about a player whose last game was in 1905 and died in 1953. But since that 1896 season, no player has led the league in games played, runs scored and hits.

However, Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. is on pace to do that after an 0 for the 20th Century by Major League Baseball players. Witt is batting .340 and leads the league in games played (102), runs (82) and hits (138).

Opta Sports was the outlet that found that link between Witt and Burkett.

If you like historic comparisons, check out this incredible list of players Witt is on pace to join based on his fWAR (FanGraphs’ Wins Above Replacement). Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Ted Williams, Mickey Mantle, Jimmie Foxx and Rogers Hornsby are among the greatest players in baseball history.

ESPN’s Jeff Passan noted that the American League Most Valuable Player race is going to be incredible.