The Kansas City Royals made a major commitment to their star shortstop on Monday when they announced an extension for Bobby Witt Jr.
The agreement is for 11 years, $288.8 million, and includes an opt-out after years seven, eight, nine and 10, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The longest, most lucrative contract in franchise history.
The initial report came from FanSided’s Robert Murray, who said the two parties were having conversations about an extension.
The Royals, and Witt Jr. himself, confirmed the news.
The present, the future, and the largest contract in franchise history. pic.twitter.com/LpcUGPpzkj
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) February 5, 2024
He’s not going anywhere.
🤝 @Royals pic.twitter.com/eDFEbWMrfx
— Bobby Witt Jr (@BwittJr) February 5, 2024
Passan added the contract will also include a club option following the 11th season. That means it could add on three years and $89 million to the deal, giving it a 14-year, $377 million ceiling.
Witt Jr., who just blew out 23 candles on his birthday cake in June, finished his 2023 campaign slashing .276/.319/.495 with 30 home runs and 96 RBI. He stole 49 bases and many observers thought he deserved a Gold Glove Award.
His teammates even created an online buzz after his Gold Glove snub.
Royals infielder Maikel Garcia wrote: “Who votes for the gold glove? What a joke.”
Witt Jr. himself posted a thinking emoji on X wondering why he didn’t earn a piece of hardware.
Nevertheless, he will have plenty of opportunities to prove why he deserves that, and so much more.
The Royals continue to make strong moves this offseason. In addition to signing veteran starter Michael Wacha to a one-year deal, Kansas City brought back a familiar face in reliever Will Smith and also signed outfielder Hunter Renfroe.
About Jessica Kleinschmidt
Jess is a baseball fan with Reno, Nev. roots residing in the Bay Area. She is the host of "Short and to the Point" and is also a broadcaster with the Oakland A's Radio Network. She previously worked for MLB.com and NBC Sports Bay Area.