Digest

Mookie Betts hosts Bobby Witt Jr. on "On Bass," presented by Geico. They discuss Witt Jr.'s experiences with extreme weather, his strategies for staying warm, and his family's support. The conversation delves into baseball, including a game of "On Base, Off Base," Witt Jr.'s athleticism, his World Baseball Classic experience, the Kansas City Royals' playoff journey, and his MVP-caliber season. Witt Jr. also shares his approach to base running and hitting, memorable ballpark moments, celebrity interactions, his childhood sports experiences, and his realization of pro baseball potential. He reflects on the COVID-19 year's impact on development, his 2019 draft class, mentoring prospects, leadership, clubhouse chemistry, and developing his unique batting stance. The podcast concludes with Witt Jr. expressing anticipation for the upcoming WBC.

Outlines

00:00:00

Weather, Family, and Baseball Beginnings

Mookie Betts welcomes Bobby Witt Jr. to "On Bass," presented by Geico. They discuss Witt Jr.'s strategies for handling extreme weather, drawing parallels to his Texas upbringing. Witt Jr. shares his father's significant support and frequent game attendance, highlighting his family's dedication.

00:02:22

Games, BBQ, and Athleticism

Witt Jr. participates in the "On Base, Off Base" game and shares a funny anecdote. The hosts engage in a lighthearted debate about Kansas City versus Texas barbecue. Witt Jr. also discusses his natural athleticism, particularly his diving plays, attributing it to childhood football experience.

00:06:09

International Play and Team Success

Witt Jr. reflects on the honor of wearing the USA uniform for the World Baseball Classic (WBC) and the team's selfless attitude. He discusses the Kansas City Royals' return to the playoffs, the electric atmosphere at Kauffman Stadium, and touches on playoff nerves and his MVP-caliber season.

00:14:30

Hitting, Base Running, and Unique Moments

Witt Jr. details his approach to base running and his hitting philosophy, emphasizing preparation. The podcast highlights unusual ballpark moments and discusses respected figures like manager Terry Francona. Witt Jr. also talks about celebrity fans and the "Big Slick" charity event.

00:21:10

Childhood, Development, and Draft Class

Witt Jr. recounts his childhood in Texas, playing multiple sports, and the decision to focus on baseball. He discusses the moment he realized his professional baseball potential and how the COVID-19 pandemic provided valuable development opportunities. He reflects on his talented 2019 draft class and the camaraderie built through Team USA.

00:36:00

Leadership, Chemistry, and Batting Style

Witt Jr. discusses his evolving understanding of leadership and praises veteran Salvador Perez. He emphasizes the importance of building strong clubhouse chemistry for team success. Witt Jr. also explains how he developed his unique batting stance and swing by incorporating elements from admired players.

Keywords

Q&A

• How does Bobby Witt Jr. handle the extreme temperatures in Kansas City?

  Witt Jr. is accustomed to heat due to growing up in Texas. For cold weather, he uses layering techniques, wearing thermals under his jersey, and sometimes uses products like baby oil or dry skin treatments to retain body heat.

• What was Bobby Witt Jr.'s most memorable moment during the World Baseball Classic?

  Witt Jr. highlighted Turner's grand slam as a particularly memorable moment. He was on second base during the play and described feeling like he was floating around the bases after hearing the hit.

• What advice does Bobby Witt Jr. give to young, highly-hyped prospects like Witt Jr.?

  Witt Jr. advises prospects to embrace their talent and not try to do more or less than what got them there. He emphasizes staying true to themselves, knowing their routine, and enjoying the game, as careers can be unpredictable.

• How did Bobby Witt Jr. develop his unique batting stance and swing?

  Witt Jr. developed his swing by observing and incorporating elements from various players he admired, such as Prince Fielder's toe tap and Dustin Pedroia's bat twirl. He didn't have a dedicated hitting coach growing up, so he pieced together his style.

• What is the significance of clubhouse chemistry in baseball, according to Witt Jr.?

  Witt Jr. believes that strong clubhouse chemistry, built on genuine relationships and mutual support, is crucial for team success. He emphasizes that this bond goes beyond talent and helps players trust each other in critical game situations.

• How did the COVID-19 pandemic impact Bobby Witt Jr.'s development?

  Witt Jr. benefited from the COVID-19 year by being invited to an alternate site, where he received significant at-bats against top prospects. This experience helped him prepare for the majors and face high-level competition.

• What role did Bobby Witt Jr.'s father play in his baseball career?

  His father, a baseball agent, was a constant source of support and guidance. He attended games frequently and provided insights on the game, pushing Witt Jr. to improve mentally and physically, acting as a "cheat sheet" for his career.

Show Notes