Kansas City Royals star Bobby Witt Jr. won a Platinum Glove for his outstanding defensive work at shortstop last season.
On Monday, he proved why on the global stage.
Witt made two stellar defensive plays against Mexico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Both plays required him to showcase his range and arm strength.
In the fourth inning, Witt made a diving stop to rob Mexico catcher Alejandro Kirk of a potential base hit. Witt ranged to his right and made a one-hop throw across the diamond.
Team USA first baseman Bryce Harper corralled the baseball for the out. He showed his appreciation alongside a raucous crowd.
Witt also drew gratitude on social media. Kansas City Chiefs star Patrick Mahomes simply referred to Witt as a “Dawg!” on his X account.
However, Witt wasn’t done.
In the fifth inning, Witt took away another hit from the Mexico lineup. This time, he snared a line drive off the bat of Mexico infielder Nick Gonzales.
Gonzales hustled down the line on the play. Witt was undeterred as he threw a strike that nearly pulled Harper off the first-base bag.
Harper held on to record the out. Both defensive plays were important as Team USA held an early lead.
Last season, Witt earned his second consecutive Gold Glove. He recorded a .983 fielding percentage while generating 186 putouts and 382 assists. Additionally, Witt had three defensive runs saved (DRS) per The Fielding Bible.
The Royals have one of the best defensive infields in baseball. Witt plays alongside fellow Gold Glove third baseman Maikel Garcia. The club also has Jonathan India at second base and Vinnie Pasquantino at first.
Witt will push for his third consecutive Gold Glove in 2026. He also is a preseason American League MVP contender after two top-5 finishes.
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Jaylon Thompson covers the Royals for The Kansas City Star. He previously covered the 2021 World Series and the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Jaylon is a proud alumnus of the University of Georgia.