Kansas City Royals standout Bobby Witt Jr., now 24, recalls the challenges he faced when entering the major leagues just three years ago, feeling the weight of stepping into a clubhouse filled with established stars. He has shared mentorship advice with rookie Jac Caglianone in 2025, encouraging him to embrace his own identity amid the pressures he will face. Witt Jr.’s message to Caglianone, the Royals’ much-anticipated call-up this season, is clear and straightforward: trust yourself and “Be Jac.”
Witt Sees His Past in Caglianone’s Current Path
At just 21 years old, Jac Caglianone has been closely watched as one of the Royals’ most promising young players this year. During an appearance on Bleacher Report’s On Base podcast with Dodgers star Mookie Betts, the conversation naturally turned to Caglianone, with Betts asking whether Witt had taken the rookie under his wing. Witt acknowledged the similarities between their journeys, emphasizing the importance of self-confidence during the transition to the majors.
My biggest thing for that I kind of tell him is just knowing that you’re a big leaguer,
Witt said.
Because I think that was the biggest thing for me.
Despite dominating the minor leagues, Witt said the nerves of reaching the majors didn’t disappear overnight. Adjusting to a clubhouse filled with veterans like Salvador Perez was a daunting experience.
It’s like you get up here at a young age or whatever it is, and you’re like looking around, and it’s like, man, there’s Salvador Perez, this guy, this guy,
Witt recalled.
His advice to Caglianone focused less on technical skills and more on maintaining confidence and a steady routine.
And I feel like I still to this day do that just because I’m this name, like, I want to do more. I want to help the team get to the playoffs,
Witt continued.
I want to do more or whatever it is. And where I just got to go out there and know my routine, know my preparation, just be Bobby Witt Jr.
That’s what I tell him every day. Just go out there and be Jac.
Balancing Expectations and Building Confidence in the Big Leagues
Witt understands the weight of expectations that come with being a top prospect and recognizes that chasing the hype can be a distraction. Instead, he stresses the importance of trusting the process and recognizing that being called up to the majors is proof of one‘s abilities. Caglianone’s initial major league experience has been difficult, marked by inconsistent performance and some bad luck at the plate.
A recent social media post highlighted the rookies and veterans struggling with unlucky hitters, where Caglianone was listed among the hardest-hit hitters in June based on expected versus actual performance.
Unluckiest Hitters of June (xwOBA to wOBA differential)
1. Ben Rice
2. Jac Caglianone
3. Paul Goldschmidt
4. Brenton Doyle
5. Marcell Ozuna
6. Connor Norby
7. Josh Jung
8. Corey Seager
9. Colt Keith
10. Josh Bell
11. Mike Trout
12. Michael Harris II
13. Jonathan India
14. Bryan… pic.twitter.com/n2bJUtUdTR
— Jon Anderson
Despite the tough start, Witt’s experience has taught him that the pressures and expectations must be embraced and managed, not feared or avoided. He hopes his advice will help Caglianone navigate the ups and downs more smoothly than he did.
The Importance of Mentorship for Royals’ Promising Talent
For Witt, mentoring Caglianone goes beyond offering straightforward baseball tips. Having endured the intense scrutiny and challenges of breaking into the big leagues himself, Witt recognizes how crucial it is for young players to have someone guide them in managing the mental and emotional demands of professional baseball. His encouragement to Caglianone to just be himself reflects a broader philosophy of maintaining authenticity and focus amid high expectations.
As a central figure in the Royals’ lineup, Witt’s leadership and mentorship could prove vital for Caglianone’s development during this critical rookie season. His message aims to help the rookie find confidence and peace of mind while adapting to the big-league environment. Witt’s support underscores the importance of having a steady presence within the clubhouse to help younger players thrive.
Looking ahead, if Caglianone can internalize this advice, he may be positioned to more quickly stabilize his performance and contribute meaningfully to Kansas City’s pursuit of success. Witt’s mentorship serves as a reminder that progress at the highest level often requires patience, resilience, and belief in one’s own preparation.