
The surprise turnaround of the Kansas City Royals has been one of baseball's most compelling storylines this season. In 2023, the Royals went 56-106 to tie an 18-year-old franchise record for lowest winning percentage. Now, Kansas City is 52-45 and firmly in playoff contention.
For that, the Royals have to thank (among others) veteran catcher Salvador Perez. The consistent performer has slashed a sterling .282/.343/.477 this season, hitting 17 home runs and driving in 62 runs.