The organization hoped the pressure would shape a superstar, rather than ruin a sensational talent. At 21, Starling is one of the youngest players at Class A Wilmington. The Royals remain protective of him, quick to dismiss his struggles and eager to relay any signs of development. When members of the front office visit, they gauge how often he smiles.
This summer, they’ve accumulated evidence for their optimism. Starling’s at-bats lengthened. His plate discipline improved. His body language reflected enthusiasm, rather than defeat.
His statistics exhibited progress. Two weeks ago, when Starling sat down with a reporter visiting from back home, he was completing perhaps his most promising month as a professional: a .287 average, a .350 on-base percentage and eight extra-base hits in July, plus his usual brand of eye-popping defense in center field.
“He’s really turned the corner, as far as the mentality of hitting, developing some confidence, trusting a plan,” Picollo said.
“The at-bats that I’ve seen out of Bubba this year, by far, have been the best at-bats that I’ve seen from him since he has been in our system,” said Scott Sharp, the Royals’ director of player development.
“I get the feeling when he goes up there, at any point in time, it’s going to click,” Wilmington manager Darryl Kennedy said. “Once it clicks, there will be no stopping him.”
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