Former 1st Round Pick Bubba Starling Finally Set to Make MLB Debut for Royals

If you're in need of a feel-good story Thursday afternoon, the Kansas City Royals have you covered. They announced that they were promoting outfielder Bubba Starling from the club's Triple-A affiliate in Ohama ahead of their second-half opener against the Tigers on Friday.

Why is this such a big deal? Well, the clash against Detroit will stand as Sterling's first game in the big league's. Amazingly enough, the 27-year-old prospect was the No. 5 overall pick back in the loaded 2011 draft class.

To put his former potential and hype into perspective, Bubba was drafted ahead of the likes of All-Stars Javier Báez, Anthony Rendon, and Francisco Lindor among other notable stars.

Bubba Starling called up to @MLB by @Royals. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 11, 2019

If you're wondering why it took Sterling so long to get the call-up it's because he struggled mightily in the lower minor-league ranks. In fact, his struggles were so prevalent that the former high school superstar almost walked away from baseball entirely back in 2017.

He's spent the last three seasons in Triple-A and has finally put together a half-season worthy of a promotion. Through 285 plate appearances in 2019, Bubba is slashing an impressive .310/.358/.448 to go with 7 home runs and 11 doubles.

8 years later, Bubba Starling is about to make his MLB Debut, just days after John Means was an All Star. https://t.co/QSSIlx1yeo
— Ryan (@ryguyblake) July 11, 2019

The expectation for Starling is to see some time in both center field and right field.

If this one doesn't make you smile we honestly don't know what will. Starling personifies the never-give-up attitude that all athletes should wear on their sleeve. He's worked for countless years to earn his shot in the big leagues, and after an incredibly long tenure in the minors, he's finally gotten the call.