Royals fans already knew Salvy was returning next year, but the team ensured he’ll stay beyond that. The club announced a new two-year deal for the captain, keeping Salvador Perez in a Royals uniform through 2027. Terms have not been disclosed, but MLB.com reporter Anne Rogers reports it is $25 million over two years.
The team held a $13.5 million club option on him for next year with a $2 million buyout, and general manager J.J. Picollo had already told reporters that Salvy would be back one way or the other.
“Salvy is a Royals legend and one of the most important players this franchise has ever had,” said Picollo. “We had the option for next year, but everyone knew we wanted to make sure his legacy with us continued longer than that. We appreciate Salvy’s commitment to the Royals, and we’re just as excited as our fans.”
The 35-year-old hit 30 home runs with 100 RBI, becoming just the seventh catcher in MLB history to reach those marks twice in a career. He hit .236/.284/.446 in 155 games, spending 92 of those games behind the plate. He is a nine-time All-Star, five-time Gold Glove Award winner, and five-time Silver Slugger Award winner. He also reached 300 career home runs and 1,000 career RBI this season, just the eighth catcher to reach those marks.
Salvy has continued to defy Father Time by being a productive hitter well into his 30s, and this contract allows the Royals to slowly ease in catching prospect Carter Jensen. Salvy can also continue to build on his Hall of Fame resume, with a chance to spend his entire career with one franchise.