A Much‑Anticipated Return
Salvador Perez is back in the Kansas City Royals’ lineup after missing several weeks with an elbow injury. Manager Michael Scribner has elected to use him as the designated hitter for the series opener against the Philadelphia Phillies, slotting him sixth in the order and facing right‑hander Aaron Nola.
The veteran’s return comes at a steep price for his owners, as Perez has posted a career‑low .201/.241/.327 slash line this season, translating to a .568 OPS that ranks among the worst for regular starters. He has managed just 10 home runs, 30 RBIs and 29 runs scored in 81 games.
Fantasy analysts are urging caution, recommending that managers keep Perez on the bench until he can demonstrate a clear improvement at the plate. The slugger’s recent form has been equally underwhelming, with only five hits in his last 35 plate appearances, including two doubles and two RBIs, while striking out 12 times and drawing no walks.
Despite the slump, there is a silver lining in his historical matchup with Nola. In eight career at‑bats against the Phillies’ ace, Perez is batting .250 with an .875 OPS, having recorded a home run and three RBIs, suggesting that a breakout could still be possible.
The Royals will hope that the extra rest and the familiar environment of Kauffman Stadium can help Perez rediscover his power swing. Until then, his fantasy value remains limited, and the team may continue to rotate him in as a DH or occasional first‑base option.