The Kansas City Royals have once again made headlines with their recent off-season moves, securing the future of their franchise by signing Bobby Witt, Jr. to a lucrative 11-year, $288.7 million contract. This unexpected development signals a shift in strategy for the Royals as they aim to not only strengthen their current team but also plan for the long-term.
Earlier this off-season, the Royals made significant investments by signing several notable players including Michael Wacha, Seth Lugo, Will Smith, Chris Stratton, Hunter Renfroe, and Garrett Hampson, collectively spending $47 million. While most of these contracts were short-term, the signing of Bobby Witt, Jr. indicates the Royals' commitment to building a competitive team beyond the present.
The intricacies of Witt's contract reveal a well-thought-out strategy by the Royals. The deal includes a $7.777 million signing bonus and opt-outs after the seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth years. If Witt chooses not to opt-out at any of these points and continues until Year 11, the Royals have the option to extend his contract for three additional years at $89 million. This flexibility allows the team to assess both Witt's performance and the evolving baseball landscape before making long-term commitments.
With an upfront guarantee of $288 million, Witt's contract is second only to Fernando Tatís, Jr.'s 14-year, $340 million deal with the Padres in 2021. However, Witt will earn approximately $2 million more per season than Tatís. Although Witt's contract does not involve as many intricate details as Julio Rodriguez's multi-layered contract with the Mariners, it still benefits both the player and the team, resonating with the Royals' fans.
This significant investment in Witt also serves a strategic purpose beyond just securing a talented player. The Royals are currently seeking public funding for a new ballpark in Jackson County, and by demonstrating their commitment to investing in the team and putting a competitive product on the field, they generate civic pride and lessen any potential backlash from taxpayers.
General Manager J.J. Picollo's approach to structuring Witt's contract aligns with the Royals' vision. The contract is backloaded, with Witt earning $148 million over the initial seven years, averaging around $21 million per season. Should Witt choose to opt-out after the seventh year, the Royals would have benefited from seven years of their franchise player's services at a below-market rate, enabling them to maximize their resources. If Witt opts to continue, a salary of $35 million per year for a player of his caliber would still be considered a bargain.
This deal has undoubtedly secured Witt's financial future, guaranteeing him nearly $150 million and providing him with the opportunity to negotiate another long-term contract after his age-30 season. Pre-arbitration deals seldom result in such mutually beneficial outcomes for both player and team, but the Royals' unconventional approach this off-season has certainly yielded surprising results.
The signing of Bobby Witt, Jr. not only solidifies the Royals' on-field lineup but also demonstrates a commitment to building a competitive team for years to come. This move showcases the Royals' determination to stay relevant in Kansas City and the highly competitive AL Central division. As the team seeks public funding for their new ballpark, the investment in Witt signifies their willingness to spend money to cultivate civic pride and ensure the success of both the team and their facility.
With the Royals making bold moves this off-season, fans can look forward to an exciting future as the team continues to redefine their path to success. The signing of Bobby Witt, Jr. sends a clear message that the Royals have come to play, and they are here to stay.
