Kansas City Royals fans were left stunned by the recent news of an enormous contract extension for their beloved shortstop, Bobby Witt Jr. MLB insider Jeff Passan was the first to break the story, revealing the intricate details of the deal. This groundbreaking agreement is valued at a staggering $288.8 million over the course of 11 years.
However, the specifics of the contract are not set in stone. Depending on various factors, such as Witt’s performance and the team’s success, the deal could potentially be a seven-year, $148 million arrangement or a 14-year, $377 million pact. The final outcome will ultimately be determined by Witt and the Royals.
Before delving into the structure of the agreement, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate Witt’s reaction to the news. The young shortstop took to Twitter to share his excitement, posting a video clip from the iconic movie “The Wolf Of Wall Street.” In the scene, Leonardo DiCaprio’s character defiantly declares, “I’m not leaving.” This gesture undoubtedly resonated with Royals fans, reassuring them that Witt is committed to staying with the team.
The initial seven years of the contract are fully guaranteed, ensuring that Witt will receive $148 million during this period. However, after the seventh season, Witt will have the option to opt-out of the deal annually for the remainder of the contract. If he chooses to remain with the Royals each year, the team will have the opportunity to add on three additional seasons at a value of $89 million. Should this occur, the total worth of the contract will skyrocket to an impressive $377 million over 14 years.
Considering the potential impact of inflation, this bold move by the Royals is likely to be hailed as a stroke of genius in the future. Witt, who is only 23 years old, has already showcased his immense talent on the field, boasting a remarkable 30-homer, 49-steal season and exceptional skills as a shortstop. With Witt firmly established as the cornerstone of the Royals’ franchise, the team is poised to compete at a high level for many years to come.
