Bobby Witt Jr., recognized as the face of the Kansas City Royals, is playing a key role in mentoring the team‘s top prospect, Jac Caglianone, as he navigates his early days in Major League Baseball. Witt, who secured an 11-year, $288.7 million contract in 2024 after a standout rookie season, shared insights about his mentorship style and how he helps Caglianone adapt to the big leagues.
Witt’s Approach to Helping Caglianone Embrace the Big Leagues
Witt impressed in his first MLB season by combining power with speed, hitting 20 home runs and stealing 30 bases. Jac Caglianone, viewed as a promising future star, has encountered challenges adjusting to MLB competition, but Witt believes strong guidance can ease this transition. Speaking on the podcast On Base with Mookie Betts, Witt explained how he encourages Caglianone to gain confidence in himself as a player at this level.
“My biggest thing for that I kind of tell him is just knowing that you’re a big leaguer, because I think that was the biggest thing for me. 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.” [Timestamp 36:17].
He emphasized the importance of focusing on preparation rather than being overwhelmed by the star power around them.
“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. 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.”
In addition, Witt reminds Caglianone to enjoy playing the game, as the longevity of a big-league career is never guaranteed.
The Impact of Witt’s Family Baseball Legacy on His Mentoring
Bobby Witt Jr.’s mentorship style is deeply influenced by his father’s extensive baseball career. Bobby Witt Sr. pitched for 16 seasons across seven MLB teams and was part of the Arizona Diamondbacks’ 2001 World Series championship team. This background provided Witt Jr. with valuable insights that helped him adapt quickly to the major leagues.
On the podcast, Witt shared the practical advice he learned from his father, which he now passes on to Caglianone. For example, rookies are expected to demonstrate humility and respect by wearing pants when traveling on the road and taking the first bus, customs that help newcomers adjust to life in the majors.
Baseball runs deeply in the Witt family beyond just Bobby Jr. and his father. Witt Jr. has three older sisters, each married to current or former MLB players—James Russell, Zach Neal, and Cody Thomas—further strengthening the family’s connection to the sport.
Why Witt’s Mentorship Matters for the Royals’ Future
As the Royals look to build a competitive team, Witt’s role as a mentor is crucial for nurturing young talent like Jac Caglianone. By sharing his experiences and encouraging Caglianone to remain focused on his own game, Witt aims to accelerate the rookie’s development and confidence. His guidance not only addresses the challenges of adjusting to the big leagues but also instills a mindset of persistence and enjoyment.
This mentorship highlights the evolving leadership within the Royals, signaling a promising future as Witt continues to set an example for his teammates. With the Royals banking on Witt’s talent and leadership, his influence may play a significant role in their quest to reach the playoffs and secure sustained success in the coming years.