SerpApi.Org
Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez added another remarkable achievement to his legendary career on Wednesday, tying George Brett for the most home runs in franchise history. Perez's two-run blast in the seventh inning helped lift the Royals to a 5-4 victory over the San Francisco Giants, giving the veteran slugger his 317th career home run.
The milestone places Perez alongside the greatest player in Royals history. Brett's franchise record had stood untouched since his retirement in 1993, making Perez's accomplishment even more significant. After spending his entire Major League career in Kansas City, the Venezuelan star is now on the verge of becoming the club's all-time home run king.
Perez delivered the historic swing with Vinnie Pasquantino on second base in the seventh inning. He crushed a sinker that traveled a projected 437 feet, according to Statcast, landing beyond the fountains in right-center field at Kauffman Stadium. As soon as the ball cleared the wall, Perez raised his right arm in celebration before receiving a thunderous ovation from the home crowd.
The emotional moment continued after Perez crossed home plate. His teammates greeted him with hugs and congratulations inside the dugout before the nine-time All-Star returned to the field to acknowledge the standing ovation from Royals fans, who recognized the significance of the historic achievement.
Perez's remarkable career has made him one of the most decorated players in franchise history. Since signing with Kansas City as a 16-year-old prospect, he has become a nine-time All-Star, five-time Gold Glove winner, five-time Silver Slugger, 2015 World Series MVP, 2024 Roberto Clemente Award recipient, and just the fourth captain in Royals history.
The record also places Perez in elite company across Major League Baseball. He is now one of only three active players who currently share or own their franchise's all-time home run record, joining Mike Trout with the Los Angeles Angels and Manny Machado with the San Diego Padres. Among active players who have hit every career home run with a single organization, Perez trails only Trout and Aaron Judge.
His next home run will give him sole possession of one of the most prestigious records in Royals history, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players ever to wear a Kansas City uniform. Considering everything Perez has accomplished over the past 15 seasons, many within the organization believe the milestone is a fitting reward for his loyalty and consistency.
Even George Brett acknowledged that the record is destined to fall. "I don't want any of my records broken, to be honest," Brett joked. "But he's a power hitter... that record is going to be broken. He's been here a long time, he's been incredibly productive, and if someone was going to break it, I'm glad it's him." With history now within reach, Salvador Perez is one swing away from standing alone atop the Royals' record books.
