:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/63976890/usa_today_12832262.0.jpg)
It has been quite a week for Bobby Witt, Jr. of Colleyville, Texas. On Monday, the Royals made him the second-overall pick in the 2019 draft. This weekend, Witt led his Colleyville Heritage Panthers to their first ever 5A state championship. And today, he is a multi-millionaire.
According to reporter Jon Heyman, Witt has signed with the Royals for a full-slot bonus of $7,789,900. Witt would receive the largest draft bonus in Royals history.
Largest draft bonuses in Royals history
| Player | Year | Overall | Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Player | Year | Overall | Bonus |
| Bobby Witt, Jr. | 2019 | 2nd | $7,789,900 |
| Bubba Starling | 2011 | 5th | $7,500,000 |
| Eric Hosmer | 2008 | 3rd | $6,000,000 |
| Brady Singer | 2018 | 18th | $4,250,000 |
| Mike Moustakas | 2007 | 2nd | $4,000,000 |
| Alex Gordon | 2005 | 2nd | $4,000,000 |
| Sean Manaea | 2013 | 34th | $3,550,000 |
| Luke Hochevar | 2006 | 1st | $3,500,000 |
| Nick Pratto | 2017 | 14th | $3,450,000 |
| Aaron Crow | 2009 | 12th | $3,000,000 |
| Kyle Zimmer | 2012 | 5th | $3,000,000 |
Bonus pools were instituted in the 2012 draft.
Witt hit .489 with 15 home runs for the Colleyville Heritage Panthers, and was widely considered one of the top two players in the draft.
Witt is not the only first-rounder reported to have signed, the Braves have reportedly come to terms with Baylor catcher Shea Langeliers, the ninth-overall selection. But it is surprising to see a prep player sign so quickly. It is a good sign that Witt wants to get his professional career started.
With his high school career now complete, Witt will likely head to Arizona to train at the Royals’ facility. He could be assigned to the rookie-level team in Burlington, North Carolina, or spend the summer with the Arizona Summer League team.
Wednesday update: The signing is official.
We have agreed to terms with No. 2 overall draft pick Bobby Witt Jr.
— Kansas City Royals (@Royals) June 12, 2019
Welcome to the #Royals, Bobby!#AlwaysRoyal pic.twitter.com/E5nGFgU6LN
Loading comments...