With spring training just around the corner, the Kansas City Royals are still working on fine-tuning their roster to remain competitive in the American League. They are still looking to add a mid-lineup power bat, possibly another late-inning reliever, and maybe a proven pitcher to their already strong rotation. However, there is a significant decision looming that requires their attention, one that goes beyond immediate needs.
The future of Salvador Pérez is becoming an increasingly important issue for the Royals. The club-record deal he signed before the 2021 season is set to expire at the end of the upcoming season. The Royals now face the crucial decision of whether to bring Pérez back for 2026 or perhaps even longer.
This decision is particularly important for general manager J.J. Picollo and principal owner John Sherman to address soon. The Royals have a one-year, $13.5 million option for Pérez for 2026, which they can exercise, or they can decline it and pay him a $2 million buyout, sending him into free agency.
On the surface, the decision might seem straightforward. The Royals could simply pick up the option, securing another year with Pérez at a significant discount from his current $20+ million deal. They could then wait and assess his performance in 2025 before deciding his long-term future.
However, this situation is far more complex. Salvador Pérez is no ordinary player. While George Brett is widely considered the permanent face of the franchise, many fans view Pérez as the current face of the Royals, alongside Bobby Witt Jr. Pérez has earned a spot in Royals lore with nine All-Star appearances, five Silver Sluggers, and five Gold Gloves. He’s the most beloved Royal since Brett, and his career milestones, including several within reach in 2025, add to his stature.
But there are complications. Pérez, who will turn 35 in May, is nearing the age where catching for so many years takes a significant toll. Though playing him more at first base and designated hitter has helped alleviate some of the physical strain, this could become more challenging as top prospect Jac Caglianone starts to demand more playing time in those roles. This raises questions about the future positions Pérez can fill, especially with Vinnie Pasquantino also in the mix.
Pérez’s 2024 performance, including 27 home runs, 104 RBIs, and a .271 batting average, shows that he still has plenty of baseball left in him. His 2025 season will play a major role in determining whether the Royals decide to bring him back, and if so, for how long.
Ultimately, barring a significant downturn in performance or a career-ending injury, Salvador Pérez will likely play for the Royals in 2026. Whether that happens through the exercise of his option, a new contract after the 2025 season, or an extension before the season begins remains to be seen.
Picollo and Sherman have a lot of decisions ahead of them, and they need to start making plans now.
