Kansas City Royals: 5 Hopes for the Royals 2019 Season

Hope 4: The Kansas City Royals get Bobby Witt Jr. #2 overall

Coming into the 2019 season, Bobby Witt Jr is considered to be the No. 2 prospect going into the draft. The high school standout has shown the ability to be a potential top-end player in the MLB with his defense, power, and speed. Here is a section from his draft projections according to MLB Pipeline.

"The right-handed hitter shows good barrel control and some willingness to use the entire field, so he could hit for average if he modifies his aggressive approach. His raw power and speed are both plus tools, which, combined with his baserunning instincts, could make him a 20-20 player. Witt covers plenty of ground at shortstop, has quick hands and possesses the arm strength to make all the necessary throws — as well as pump mid-90s fastballs from the mound. His love for the game is evident, and scouts praise his makeup as much as his physical ability."

To be fair, they also brought some caution along with Witt Jr. In the same clip, the MLB Pipeline also stated the following.

"A rare potential five-tool shortstop, Witt comes with some concerns about his bat, because he didn’t always make consistent contact on the showcase circuit last summer."

The biggest question is whether or not Witt will be there at No. 2 though. With the Baltimore Orioles picking No. 1 overall, they could decide to take Witt, which after they Orioles hired his uncle as a pro scout it wouldn’t be a surprise. However, many MLB writers and mock drafts have the Orioles taking Oregon State catcher Adley Rutschman.

If the Orioles were to take Rutschman and the Royals do get Witt, anticipate them moving the high school shortstop to third base. Adding Witt to the Royals future infield could provide them with one of the best infields in baseball when the rest of the core makes the jump to the big league level. But time will tell on how Witt continues to develop in high school and if anyone else makes a big jump that impresses the Royals.