Whether it’s his fan favorite smile and love for the game, or his ability on the diamond; Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez is undoubtedly making a name for himself. Luckily for the Royals faithful, they’ll be seeing him in blue at least through the 2021 season. With the reconstruction of his current contract, the All-Star catcher is now guaranteed $52.5 million over five seasons.
Perez’s contract extension was announced Tuesday and will begin in 2017, superseding his existing contract. The 25-year-old Venezuelan native started in 137 games last season, the most out of any player in the Major Leagues. This impressive number helped intensify his reputation as one of the best catchers in the game, while also allowing him to receive his third consecutive Gold Glove title.
The 2015 World Series MVP first signed with the Kansas City Royals as a 16-year-old, shooting through the Minor Leagues system. After making his MLB debut in 2011, Perez became the everyday catcher the following year and has been an All-Star since. Last season, his .260 batting average and 21 homeruns helped blast the Royals to their first title since 1985. It’s safe to say that after this contract extension, Salvador Perez is finally getting the credit he deserves.
Just when you thought he couldn’t be a better face for the rising franchise, Perez is donating $1 million to the Urban Youth Academy near downtown Kansas City, Missouri. The 21-acre development of baseball fields and other park amenities will feature a field named after Perez, with hopes of motivating young kids to play the game of baseball.
The Royals made the right decision extending Salvy’s contract. It keeps Perez happy, while also showing that the organization is about winning now, and in the future.
This landmark figure who helped the team to back-to-back World Series appearances, is looking to make it a third in the 2016 season. With the new addition of Ian Kennedy and the re-signing of All-Star outfielder Alex Gordon, the Royals are in good shape to make another impressive Fall Classic run. Also, the familiar face of Joakim Soria will help strengthen the already untouchable KC bullpen.
The Kansas City Royals sought to satisfy Perez with this contract extension, for the reason that the elite catcher has already greatly satisfied the KC organization. With the World Series MVP leading the charge and his fellow All-Stars following him, the Kansas City Royals will most certainly be making noise yet again in the AL Central. Salvador Perez and the boys in blue will be ring chasing again in 2016.