Royals’ Bobby Witt Jr. exits vs. Mariners after being hit by pitch

The Kansas City Royals are holding their collective breath regarding the health of the 2024 American League MVP runner-up.

Shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. exited Wednesday’s contest against the Seattle Mariners in the fifth inning after he was struck by a pitch.

The Royals said he was being evaluated for an injury to his left forearm.

The 24-year-old is looking to parlay his All-Star 2024 into this season, with two homers, four RBI and a .276 average in 29 at-bats so far in Spring Training.

Prior to his injury, Witt Jr. had two at-bats with no hits and one strikeout. He was replaced at shortstop by Tyler Tolbert.

Witt Jr. came second only to Aaron Judge in the AL MVP race after the 2019 second-overall pick had 32 homers, 109 RBI and 31 stolen bases while slashing .332/.389/.588 last season.

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