Salvador Perez made MLB history on Saturday night, launching two home runs against the Philadelphia Phillies to reach 300 career home runs and 1,000 RBI, a rare milestone that strengthens his case for the Hall of Fame. While the Kansas City Royals fell short in an 8–6 loss, Perez’s individual achievement places him among the most elite catchers in MLB.
The Venezuelan slugger became just the 8th catcher in the history of the majors to hit 300 or more home runs, joining a legendary group that includes six Hall of Famers: Johnny Bench, Yogi Berra, Mike Piazza, Carlton Fisk, Gary Carter, and Iván RodrÃguez. Of the seven catchers who reached the mark before him, only Lance Parrish has not been inducted into Cooperstown, making Perez the only active player in this exclusive club.
Perez also became the 10th catcher to record 1,000 career RBIs, further solidifying his legacy. This group is dominated by Hall of Famers, with only Yadier Molina, Jorge Posada, and Parrish yet to receive the honor. Molina, widely respected for his defense and leadership, remains a strong candidate for future induction.
Salvador Perez #13 of the Kansas City Royals rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run in the first inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on September 13, 2025 in Philadelphia,…
Salvador Perez #13 of the Kansas City Royals rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run in the first inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on September 13, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
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Beyond the power numbers, Perez’s résumé includes nine All-Star selections, five Gold Glove Awards, and four Silver Sluggers, underscoring his impact both offensively and defensively. His leadership and durability behind the plate have made him the face of the Royals franchise for over a decade.
“I would feel better if we won the game tonight,” Perez said, according to The Sporting News. “I think everybody in this game has some personal goals. But I always say the most important thing is to win. No matter what you do. At the end of the day, it’s about [if you] win or lose. It’s not about you… I thank God for letting me play the game that I love to play, compete every day. But I would have felt better if we won tonight.”
Despite Perez’s historic night, the Royals‘ postseason hopes continue to fade. With a 74–75 record, Kansas City trails the Detroit Tigers by 10 games in the American League Central Division and sits sixth in the AL Wild Card standings, seven games behind the Houston Astros, who currently hold the final playoff spot.
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