Salvador Perez, the Kansas City Royals’ nine-time All-Star catcher, has regained a strong offensive presence after a slow start this season, raising hopes among fans and analysts. The Royals are witnessing Perez’s resurgence at the plate, yet they face important decisions regarding his contract as the 2026 season approaches, underscoring the need for prudent management amid his current hot streak.
Earlier this year, Perez’s performance caused concern. At the end of May, he was hitting just .220/.260/.346 with only four home runs, prompting speculation on social media that the veteran catcher might be nearing the end of his career. Such worries stemmed in part from Perez’s significant place in Royals history — with five Gold Gloves and five Silver Sluggers, no other Royal, including Hall of Famer George Brett, matches his career achievements.
However, Perez has dramatically improved since June, demonstrating the offensive prowess that once made him a perennial all-star. From June 1 through a recent victory over the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, Perez batted .301 with 14 home runs and 36 RBIs. In July alone, he posted a staggering .368/.411/.853 slash line with nine homers and a 1.264 OPS.
Contract Considerations Loom for Perez and the Royals
Despite Perez’s impressive recent stretch, the Royals must carefully evaluate how to handle his contract situation heading into 2026. Currently, Perez is playing under what was once the franchise’s largest contract, until Bobby Witt Jr. signed a bigger deal prior to last season. The Royals have the option to exercise their club option for $13.5 million, a significant pay cut from his current salary, or buy out the option for $2 million, allowing Perez to become a free agent. Given Perez’s status within the club and among fans, it is unlikely owner John Sherman would advise general manager J.J. Picollo to let him walk as a free agent.
Another alternative is negotiating a new multi-year contract, but this path carries risks due to Perez’s age and workload. Exercising the club option seems the most financially cautious approach, yet the decision remains uncertain. The Royals must resist letting Perez’s current hot streak dictate their choice to avoid a costly commitment that might not pay off if his performance declines.
The Physical and Age Challenges Perez Faces Moving Forward
Approaching his 36-year-old season in 2026, Perez is at a stage when many players begin to experience declines. His long tenure as a catcher—a position known for its physical demands—adds to these concerns. Increasingly deployed at first base and designated hitter roles to manage wear and tear, Perez still carries the burden of years spent behind the plate, which inevitably affects longevity.
These factors — his advancing age and the cumulative physical toll of catching — will likely impact Perez’s abilities sooner rather than later. There is no guarantee he will maintain his current level of performance, regardless of his recent hot streak.
Balancing Appreciation with Prudence for the Royals’ Future
The Royals should savor Perez’s current success and hope he continues to contribute late into the season. Yet they must also maintain realistic expectations and avoid overextending financially for a player whose prime years could be closing. While Perez may still provide a couple of solid seasons, the organization must prepare for a gradual decline that could reshape their roster construction and competitive window.
Smart decision-making will ensure that the Royals honor the remarkable career of a franchise icon without risking future flexibility, preserving the team’s long-term prospects as they move toward 2026 and beyond.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Salvador Perez’s salary?
A. CINCINNATI — At 42 years old, Justin Verlander is currently the oldest player still active in Major League Baseball. His impressive career has lasted beyond typical expectations.
Q. How much is Salvador Perez paid?
A. Salvador Johan Perez Diaz, born on May 10, 1990, is a professional baseball player. He plays as a catcher, designated hitter, and first baseman for the Kansas City Royals in Major League Baseball (MLB). Perez, who is Venezuelan-American, is also known by the nicknames “El Niño” and “Salvy.”
Q. How much does Salvador Perez get paid?
A. Salvador Perez agreed to stay with the Kansas City Royals from 2022 to 2026 with a 4-year contract worth $82,000,000. This amount is fully guaranteed, and he will make an average of $20,500,000 each year. In 2025, Perez’s base salary will be $22,000,000, and his overall earnings will be $20,000,000.