Giancarlo Stanton had classy gesture for Royals star after ALDS win

Oct 7, 2019; Minneapolis, MN, USA; New York Yankees left fielder Giancarlo Stanton (27) looks on during pre game batting practice before game three of the 2019 ALDS playoff baseball series against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees eliminated the Kansas City Royals from the playoffs with a 3-1 win in Game 5 of the American League Division Series on Thursday. After the game ended, one of their stars drew praise for a classy gesture he offered up following the end of the game.

Royals star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. remained in the dugout after the end of the game to watch the Yankees celebrate on the field, though few of his teammates did the same. Yankees DH Giancarlo Stanton took notice of this and made it a point to go over to Witt and acknowledge him before leaving the field.

Bobby Witt Jr. was alone watching the Yankees celebrate so Giancarlo Stanton went over to show him respect

(via @SamMcDowell11, @marioagomez_1) pic.twitter.com/2xLwct1mP3

— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) October 11, 2024

This was Witt’s first playoff run, and as long as he continues to produce at a high level, it is unlikely to be his last. Seeing Stanton go over and acknowledge him was pretty cool.

Stanton is arguably the biggest reason why Witt and the Royals are going home. He hit .375 in the four-game series while driving in four runs. He also contributed the home run that won Game 3. Yes, his baserunning is a major concern, but he was a massive factor in the series, especially with Aaron Judge struggling.