Phillies legend Shane Victorino drops 1-word reaction to Bobby Witt Jr. "flying through the sky like Superman" in Cardinals game
Bobby Witt Jr. isn't only electric on basepaths; he's as athletic on defense as well. That was on display on Thursday between the Kansas City Royals and the St. Louis Cardinals.
In the third inning with the count full, Cardinals hitter Ivan Herrera hit a line drive that was way out of reach of Witt Jr., who was stationed at shortstop. However, he made a flying leap to make a heart-stopping catch, avoiding the runner at second from advancing. The live announcer described the play aptly:
"Line and a diving catch by Bobby Witt Jr. Like Superman flying through the sky and taking a base hit and an RBI away from Herrera."
The announcer or fans in the park weren't the only ones in appreciation of Witt Jr.'s excellent play as Philadelphia Phillies legend Shane Victorino reacted:
"GEEZ."
However, the play was followed by a two-run game-tying home run from Nolan Arenado, capping off a four-run inning by the Cardinals to tie the game 5-5. If not for the grab, the Cardinals had a chance to add at least one more run.
Bobby Witt Jr.'s golden defense always turning well for Royals
On Thursday, it was a close game, ending 7-5 in favor of the Royals. However, if not for the great grab by Bobby Witt Jr. in the third inning, the result might have been different.
Witt's defense has improved a lot. He won his first Gold Glove last season after posting a .974 fielding percentage, recording 207 putouts, 361 assists and 78 double plays.
His defensive highlights are ones to notice, and he has worked extensively on his defense to reach his current level.
“Just trying to take away as many hits as possible,” Witt said of his defense (via Yahoo Sports).
“If you are not getting hits, you are trying to take them away. That’s what you are trying to do at all times: be in the right position for any play made and try to help out the pitchers.”
If there's anyone in the majors currently who embodies the spirit of a five-tool player, it's Bobby Witt Jr. He has the speed, power, contact hitting, defensive presence and arm strength, making him stand out from others.