The Kansas City Royals announced that shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. has agreed to a massive 11-year contract extension, worth at least $288.7 million – making it by far the largest contract in franchise history, surpassing Salvador Perez’s four-year, $82 million contract.  The franchise posted on X: “The present, the future, and the largest contract in franchise history.” Witt’s contract includes a $7.7 million signing bonus and opt outs after Years 7, 8, 9, and 10, with a three-year club option that could push the total value to 14 years and $377.7 million.

The 23-year-old Witt re-tweeted the Royals announcement of his record-breaking contract, sharing on X: “I am incredibly grateful to the Sherman family and the Royals front office for believing in me, and I promise to do everything in my power to help bring championship baseball back to Kansas City! Let’s go!!”

Royals chairman John Sherman said in a statement: “We are extraordinarily proud to announce an historic deal with a very special player. Like our fans, I’m thrilled that this ensures Bobby will compete in a Royals uniform for many years to come. Bobby makes us better, and I’m grateful for his commitment to our fans, our city, and our team.”. GM J.J. Picollo said in a statement: “From the day we drafted him we felt confident Bobby would become one of our game’s brightest stars and biggest talents. These last two seasons have been confirmation of that talent, and proof that he’s an even better teammate. We know he wants to win here for our fans as much as we do.”

Kansas City went 56-106 last season, tying the 2005 team for the most losses in franchise history. The Royals have not had a winning season nor been to the postseason since winning the 2015 World Series.

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