The Kansas City Royals secured their star catcher Salvador Perez with a lucrative contract extension in 2021.
The four-year dealm which began in 2022, includes a four-year option for 2026. While the specific financial details were not disclosed by the team, reports say that the contract is the largest in Royals history.
Structure of Salvador Perez’s current contract
According to several media outlets, Perez earned $18 million in 2022. He will earn an estimated earning of $20 million for 2023 and 2024, $22 million in 2025 and a final year in 2026 with a club-option salary of $13.5 million and a $2 million buyout.
Salvador Perez has had an exceptional career, earning several accolades, including the American League Comeback Player of the Year award in 2020.
Perez has proven himself a valuable asset behind the plate. He has received multiple awards for his defensive skills, including five Gold Glove awards. Additionally, Perez has been selected as an All-Star seven times.
Perez's contract extension solidifies his place in Royals history. He holds the franchise record for games caught (1140). With his current deal, he's expected to climb even higher on the franchise's all-time games played list.
The Royals are hopeful that Perez's leadership and abilities will contribute to the team's return to contention. They have been gradually building a promising roster, with young pitching prospects and talented players in their system.
Despite a last-place finish in the AL Central in 2022, the Royals aim to improve their performance and compete for a postseason spot. They're last in their division currently.
The contract extension signifies the team's commitment to Perez and their confidence in his abilities. It also demonstrates the Royals' willingness to invest in their players and build a competitive roster.
As for Perez, he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, noting his humble beginnings and the joy the extension brings to his family. The catcher expressed his desire to end his career with the Royals, further solidifying his bond with the organization.