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Bobby Witt Jr. makes first All-Star start as Royals shortstop in 2026

2026-07-16 · Bobby Witt Jr. · Player Focus

Bobby Witt Jr. made his first All-Star Game starting appearance on July 4, 2026, joining an exclusive group in Royals history.

What happened?

The Kansas City Royals star shortstop started at short for the American League in the 2026 All-Star Game at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. The nod marked his first selection as a starter in the midseason classic after two straight All-Star appearances as a reserve. Witt Jr. became just the third shortstop in Royals franchise history to earn a starting role, following Freddie Patek in 1978 and Alcides Escobar in 2015.

The game itself ended with the AL falling 3-2 to the NL in 12 innings. Witt Jr. went 0-for-2 with a walk in his lone plate appearance, but his presence underscored his breakout season. The 22-year-old entered the break leading AL shortstops in WAR and ranked among the league leaders in hits, doubles and runs scored.

Why this matters for Bobby Witt Jr.

The start cements Witt Jr.’s place among the game’s elite at 22. Only three shortstops younger than him have ever started an All-Star Game: Alex Rodriguez, Nomar Garciaparra and Andruw Jones. His inclusion reflects a season of sustained excellence at the keystone position.

Witt Jr. leads the AL in defensive runs saved among shortstops and ranks third in offensive WAR. His 20-plus stolen bases and .285 average add to his value as a dynamic two-way threat. The All-Star nod also boosts his MVP profile as the Royals chase a postseason return.

What comes next?

Witt Jr. will return to Kauffman Stadium on July 12 for a four-game set against the Guardians. The Royals sit five games back in the AL Central but hold a wild-card spot in the thick of the race. His continued production remains central to Kansas City’s push down the stretch.

The All-Star break offers a chance to reset after a first-half surge. Witt Jr. has already set career highs in hits, RBIs and runs, with power numbers trending upward. A strong second half could cement his case for hardware come October.

The bigger picture

Witt Jr.’s rise mirrors the Royals’ resurgence under first-year manager Matt Quatraro. The club ranks among the league’s most improved teams in run differential, fueled by young stars like Witt Jr., Salvador Perez and Cole Ragans. His All-Star start is the latest sign Kansas City has arrived in the AL’s tough Central.

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