The Story and Meaning Behind Bobby Witt Jr.'s #2 Jersey Number

The Story Behind Bobby Witt Jr.'s Jersey Number

Baseball fans love jersey numbers. A player's number becomes part of their identity and legacy in the game. For rookies, the jersey number selection process can be an exciting rite of passage. This was true for Bobby Witt Jr. when he was assigned his first major league jersey number by the Kansas City Royals in 2022.

Bobby Witt Jr.'s Background

Bobby Witt Jr. was born on June 21, 2000 in Colleyville, Texas. He is the son of former major league pitcher Bobby Witt. Witt Jr. was selected by the Kansas City Royals as the second overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft out of Colleyville Heritage High School. He made his professional debut that year in rookie ball. Witt raced through the minor leagues, showing five-tool potential. He became one of the top prospects in baseball.

The Significance of Jersey Numbers

In baseball, a player's jersey number is their identity. Numbers are often passed down through generations and carry history and meaning. When Witt Jr. reached the majors, his jersey number selection was an important decision. Many factors go into the process, like what numbers are available and any personal meaning behind choosing a number.

How Bobby Witt Jr. Got His Jersey Number

During spring training before the 2022 season, Bobby Witt Jr. was assigned #7. This is the number he wore through his journey in the minor leagues. However, later in the preseason the Royals announced that Witt Jr. would wear #2 on opening day. This switch occurred because veteran outfielder Andrew Benintendi had signed with the team and already occupied #7.

Rather than make Benintendi change numbers, the team gave Witt Jr. #2. This was previously worn by infielder Nicky Lopez, who graciously gave it up for the heralded rookie. Number 2 holds special meeting for Witt Jr. - it is the reverse of his father Bobby Witt's #20 that he wore as a pitcher. This was a fitting passing of the torch.

The Meaning Behind Bobby Witt Jr.'s Jersey Number

With his #2 jersey, Bobby Witt Jr. pays tribute to his family legacy while forging his own path. The switch also showed Witt Jr.'s character in not demanding to keep #7. He embraced the change with grace. The number change also linked him with Kansas City Royals history, as #2 was previously worn by Hall of Famer Frank White.

Bobby Witt Jr. is upholding the meaning of #2 in many ways. He is a talented two-way player, flashing both great offense and defense. He bats and throws right-handed - two iconic symbols of baseball. With his high ceiling, Witt Jr. could claim multiple MVP awards and World Series titles in his career - raising two fingers for the #2 on his back. Bobby Witt Jr.'s #2 jersey signifies heritage, humility, and potential for greatness.

Bobby Witt Jr.'s Rookie Season in #2

As the 2022 season unfolded, Bobby Witt Jr. showed why he is the future face of the Royals franchise. He made the opening day roster and became an immediate impact player. Witt Jr. dazzled with his five-tool skill set of power, speed, hitting, fielding and throwing ability. He delivered highlight reel defensive plays at shortstop while contributing at the plate.

Witt Jr. validated his lofty top prospect status by posting a .254 batting average with 20 home runs and 30 stolen bases. He finished third in AL Rookie of the Year voting after a tremendous debut season. Bobby Witt Jr.'s rookie year was just the beginning of what looks to be an illustrious career donning the Royal blue #2.

The Legacy of Bobby Witt Jr.'s Number 2 Jersey

Bobby Witt Jr.'s number 2 jersey represents past, present and future. It links generations of family excellence and Kansas City Royals history. The way he came about wearing it also reveals Witt Jr.'s character and leadership. He is forging a new path wearing #2 but respects where he came from.

Witt Jr. is already building a legacy wearing the number 2 jersey. His outstanding rookie season showed flashes of a future batting champion, Gold Glove shortstop and MVP. The number looks to fit Witt Jr. perfectly as his career arcs upward. Bobby Witt Jr. and his #2 jersey symbolize the bright future and hope for championships that lies ahead for the Kansas City Royals.

FAQs

What number does Bobby Witt Jr. wear?

Bobby Witt Jr. wears #2 for the Kansas City Royals.

Why does Bobby Witt Jr. wear #2?

He was originally assigned #7 but switched to #2 to accommodate veteran Andrew Benintendi. #2 is also the reverse of his dad's number 20.

What was the story behind Bobby Witt Jr. getting #2?

Nicky Lopez graciously gave up his #2 for Witt Jr. This showed Witt Jr.'s character in not demanding to keep his original #7.

What is the significance of Bobby Witt Jr.'s #2?

It pays tribute to his family legacy and baseball heritage. #2 was also previously worn by Royals legend Frank White.

Did Bobby Witt Jr. have a good rookie season in #2?

Yes, he hit 20 HRs, stole 30 bases, played great defense and finished 3rd in AL Rookie of the Year voting.