The Kansas City Royals have made a significant move by extending Bobby Witt Jr., which has sparked a range of reactions among fans. Some are thrilled with the decision, while others may feel apprehensive, but regardless, it marks a commitment for the foreseeable future.
Witt’s new deal with the Royals is substantial, potentially spanning over 11 years with a total value of $288.7 million, including a notable signing bonus. This agreement positions Witt as the highest-paid player in Royals history. With the structure of the contract, it appears Witt will be a fixture in Kansas City for at least the next seven seasons, with options for both him and the club in the later years.
It’s worth noting that such long-term contracts before a player hits arbitration are unusual. Witt was already under team control for four more seasons, so the Royals had him secured until he reached the age of 27. However, this trend of preemptive, extended deals has become more prevalent in recent times, despite the inherent risks involved in committing substantial resources to a player who has limited Major League experience.
The success of this agreement hinges on two primary factors: Witt’s performance on the field and his ability to sustain that level of play over the lengthy duration of the contract. These are uncertainties that both the player and the team will need to navigate as they move forward.