Bobby Witt Jr. And Cristopher Sánchez Named MLB Players of the Week
Major League Baseball announced its Players of the Week on Monday, May 11, 2026, recognizing two dominant performances that shifted the momentum for their respective teams. Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. Took home the American League honor, while Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Cristopher Sánchez earned the National League award.
For Witt, the award marks a return to elite form after a slow start to the season. For Sánchez, it serves as a validation of his status as one of the premier pitchers in the National League. Here is a detailed look at the performances that earned them these honors.
Bobby Witt Jr. Ignites the Royals’ Offense
Bobby Witt Jr. Put together a massive week from May 4-10, helping the Kansas City Royals climb back into contention in the AL Central. The 25-year-old shortstop slashed .407 (11-for-27) during the stretch, recording three home runs, four RBI, and seven runs scored. His efficiency at the plate was evident in a 1.263 OPS and an .815 slugging percentage.
One of the highlights of Witt’s week occurred on Thursday against Cleveland, where he recorded four hits and drew a walk. This performance marked the first time in his career that he reached base safely five times in a single game. With his 11th career four-hit game, Witt now ties Willie Wilson for the third-most in franchise history before turning 26, trailing only George Brett (23) and Billy Butler (12).
Witt’s surge has a significant impact on his season-long metrics. He raised his batting average by more than 20 points to .302 and increased his OPS by 82 points to .847. He currently holds a 2.8 bWAR, tying him for the MLB lead among all position players.
A Family Legacy of Excellence
This marks the third career Player of the Week award for Witt, following two honors earned in 2024 on May 28 and July 22. The achievement also cements a unique family legacy; along with his father, Bobby Sr., who won the award on July 3, 1994, the Witts are one of only 14 father-son combinations in MLB history to each win at least one Player of the Week honor.
Cristopher Sánchez Dominates the National League
While Witt provided the fireworks in the AL, Cristopher Sánchez provided a masterclass in pitching for the Philadelphia Phillies. Sánchez earned his first career Player of the Week award after going 2-0 with a perfect 0.00 ERA over 15 innings of work.
The lefty’s week was highlighted by two standout outings:
- Wednesday vs. Oakland A’s: Sánchez tossed eight innings, allowing only three hits and one walk while striking out 10 batters.
- Sunday vs. Colorado Rockies: He followed up with seven strong innings and seven strikeouts.
Sánchez, who finished second in the NL Cy Young voting last season, continues to be a cornerstone of the Phillies’ rotation. He currently leads all National League pitchers with a 2.6 bWAR.
Key Takeaways: May 11 Players of the Week
- Bobby Witt Jr. (AL): Hit .407 with 3 HR and a 1.263 OPS; tied for MLB lead in runs scored and tied for 2nd in hits and total bases (22).
- Cristopher Sánchez (NL): Posted a 0.00 ERA over 15 innings with 17 total strikeouts across two starts.
- Historical Milestone: Bobby Witt Jr. And Bobby Sr. Join an elite group of 14 father-son POTW winners.
- Franchise Record: Witt moves into a tie with Willie Wilson for the 3rd-most four-hit games for the Royals before age 26.
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 season progresses, both players are positioning themselves as MVP and Cy Young candidates. Witt’s ability to swing the momentum of a game with his bat and speed makes him a perennial threat in the AL, while Sánchez’s consistency on the mound keeps the Phillies among the elite in the NL.
In other league news, the Braves’ Jim Jarvis made a splash in his debut week, earning “Play of the Week” honors for a spectacular diving catch to rob the Dodgers’ Kyle Tucker of a hit last Friday.