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ItalianoBobby Witt Jr. sits out Royals’ win over Padres with tight back
Bobby Witt Jr. will miss the Kansas City Royals’ series finale against the San Diego Padres on Sunday after his back tightened up during Saturday’s game.
Manager Matt Quatraro confirmed the decision on X, citing caution with the All-Star shortstop. The Royals beat the Padres 7-6 on Friday and 6-1 on Saturday, looking to complete the sweep on Sunday afternoon.
What happened to Bobby Witt Jr.?
Witt’s back issue flared during Saturday’s game and worsened by Sunday, forcing the Royals to bench their 2023 All-Star. Quatraro said the team wanted to avoid risking further aggravation with a tight matchup looming.
The Royals entered the series on a five-game losing streak, but bounced back with two straight wins. They sit 40-59 overall, 12 games behind the Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Guardians in the AL Central.
How has Witt fared this month?
Witt is mired in a July slump, batting just .200 with a .241 on-base percentage. He’s managed only three extra-base hits-one homer-and three RBIs in 15 games this month.
His struggles include 12 strikeouts in July, including three in the series opener against San Diego. For the year, he’s hitting .280 with 13 homers and 39 RBIs, but his recent form has dipped sharply.
Why the Royals can’t afford to lose Witt
The Royals’ offense leans heavily on Witt’s production at the top of the order. His absence leaves a gaping hole in the lineup against a Padres staff that’s allowed the fewest runs in the NL this month.
Kansas City’s 40-59 record leaves them ten games out of the final AL wild-card spot. A sweep of San Diego would’ve been a morale boost, but the bigger loss is Witt’s potential impact.
What’s next for Witt and the Royals?
Witt’s status for Monday’s series finale remains uncertain. The Royals will need a healthy lineup to keep pace in a crowded AL wild-card race.
The team’s next series starts Tuesday against the Detroit Tigers. If Witt returns, he’ll look to snap his July funk and help Kansas City climb out of the division’s basement.