Bobby Witt Jr. put on a Gold Glove clinic in Team USA’s 5-3 win over Mexico on Monday night at the World Baseball Classic.
The Kansas City Royals shortstop made two stunning diving plays in back-to-back innings, robbing Blue Jays catcher Alejandro Kirk in the fourth and Pirates infielder Nick Gonzales in the fifth. Both times, Witt ranged deep into the hole, dove full extension and somehow uncorked strong enough throws from his knees or his feet to beat the runners to first base.
The throw on the Gonzales play registered 89 mph out of Witt’s hand according to Statcast, a remarkable figure given he was diving away from first base just a split-second before releasing it.
“Those are the ones that are fun,” Witt told FOX Sports after the game. “You just go out there and try to make plays.”
Pitcher Paul Skenes, who was on the mound for both plays, could only grin in disbelief. Before the game, Witt had told him on the bus ride over that he had his back in the field no matter what.
“Bobby’s play, that’s one of the best plays I’ve ever seen,” Skenes said.
Team USA captain Aaron Judge was equally effusive in his praise.
“He makes plays like that that win you a ballgame,” Judge said. “There’s only maybe one or two individuals in the game that can do that, and he’s one of them.”
Witt’s performance even caught the attention of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who reacted to the plays on social media. NBA star Kevin Durant had earlier posted his admiration for Skenes after his dominant start, making it a big night for USA stars drawing praise from across the sporting world.
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