KC Royals: Predicting All-Star Selections – Infielders

May 19, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; The Kansas City Royals mascot waves a flag after the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Kauffman Stadium. The Royals won 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

Salvador Perez, Catcher

May 17, 2015; Kansas City, MO, USA; Kansas City Royals catcher Salvador Perez (13) singles in a run against the New York Yankees during the fourth inning at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter G. Aiken-USA TODAY Sports

2015 Stats

GP: 38

AB: 145

H: 42

AVG: .290

HR: 5

RBI: 22

R: 13

SB: 1

Slash: .290/.302/.448

Summary:

Perez leads all AL catchers in hits, is second in doubles and is tied for third in home runs, RBI and batting average. While those stats are impressive, it’s Perez’s defense that truly sets him apart. He leads all qualifying catchers by throwing out 48 percent (12-of-25) of would-be base stealers, while committing just one error. He also has history on his side, as a back-to-back All-Star, which doesn’t hurt in the minds of voters.

Will he or won’t he?

There is a very good shot Perez makes his third-straight appearance, and he has the numbers to back it up. Oakland’s Stephen Vogt has slightly better slash numbers (.307/.415/.607), along with nine home runs and 30 RBI, as does Toronto’s Russell Martin (.297/.383/.555). Good thing for Perez is that he plays a position where defense matters more, and he’s arguably the best in the game.

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