Salvador Perez tests positive for COVID-19
The Kansas City Royals may be without Salvador Perez for the foreseeable future once more as he tested positive for COVID-19.
Salvador Perez has been a star for the Kansas City Royals, a power hitting catcher who is one of the best defensive backstops in the game today. His presence behind the plate was sorely missed last season, and was expected to be a key part in the development of the Royals young pitchers this year.
The Royals were hoping that Perez would be back at full health for 2020. Instead, they may need to wait longer, as he has tested positive for COVID-19, although he is asymptomatic.
Salvy Perez has tested positive for Covid-19. He is asymptomatic. He will get tested again.
— Jeffrey Flanagan (@FlannyMLB) July 4, 2020
A six time All Star and two time winner of the Silver Slugger, Perez has been a strong presence in the Royals lineup. Over his career, he has produced a respectable .266/.297/.442 batting line, hitting 177 doubles and 141 homers.
More Royals. Keller not worth extension yet. light
As solid as he is with the bat, Perez is even more valued for his defense. A five time Gold Glove winner, he has led the league in runs saved and caught stealing twice each. His presence alone can shut down the opposition’s running game, as his howitzer of an arm has been an impressive weapon.
For the first time in years, there were question marks about Perez heading into 2020. He had undergone Tommy Joh surgery early in spring training last year, a potentially devastating injury for someone that relies on his arm as much as Perez does. There was already talk that he would get more time at first to limit his workload, which also made sense given the unsettled situation at the position.
This positive test further complicates matters. Perez is not just penned in as the Royals starting catcher, but he is an unquestioned leader in the clubhouse, a player who is the heart and soul of the team. He was a key part of their World Series years, a veteran who can help mold the younger players into winners. And now, that presence will be missed indefinitely.
Next. The Royals secret weapon. dark
The Kansas City Royals need Salvador Perez. Unfortunately, they will need to wait a bit longer, as he tested positive for COVID-19.