Salvador Perez is expected to return to the Kansas City Royals in 2026, pending contract talks.

The Kansas City Royals expect Salvador Perez to return in 2026, with general manager J.J. Picollo calling it “safe to say” the veteran catcher will remain, though contract terms are still being discussed. Perez, 35, played all 15 MLB seasons with Kansas City, contributing 30 home runs and 100 RBIs in 2025 despite defensive struggles. The team, which finished 82-80, aims to build around core players like Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia, with a focus on improving offense and maintaining strong pitching. The catching role remains unsettled after Freddy Fermin’s trade and Luke Maile’s free agency.