Royals superstar is making strong case for highest American League honor

The Kansas City Royals have made some drastic improvements over the last year. After losing 106 games in 2023, Kansas City is right in the thick of the playoff race.

As things currently stand, the Royals lead the Seattle Mariners by 2 1/2 games for the third American League Wild Card spot. This year, Kansas City has been led by one of Major League Baseball's top players.

Bobby Witt Jr. is having a season to remember, and he likely will garner at least some consideration for the AL MVP Award.

Buster Olney of ESPN tweeted the numbers Witt is on pace to finish with.

"Bobby Witt Jr. is on pace to finish the season with 225 hits, 49 walks, 137 runs, 119 RBI, 30 home runs, 34 steals, and 22 Outs Above average (T-2nd MLB)," Olney wrote. "He's hitting .347, best in MLB."

In addition to his .347 average, the 24-year-old shortstop has hit 22 home runs, driven in 87 runs, stolen 25 bases, and posted a .998 OPS. While Aaron Judge may be the frontrunner, Witt is certainly giving him a run for his money.

It would certainly be interesting to see Witt win the award at the end of the season. At the very least, he has earned consideration for the honor and deserves a chance to be in the running.

We'll see how the Royals star shortstop finishes the 2024 season and if he can edge out Judge.

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