The Kansas City Royals are planning to implement a catching platoon for the 2026 Major League Baseball season, utilizing veteran Salvador Perez and rookie Carter Jensen. Manager Matt Quatraro confirmed the strategy, aiming to manage the workload of the 35-year-old Perez while integrating the promising 22-year-old Jensen.
Salvador Perez, an eight-time All-Star and the 2015 World Series MVP, remains a cornerstone of the franchise but has dealt with recent injuries. The plan is for him to catch approximately 100 games, with additional time likely at designated hitter or first base to keep his bat in the lineup.
Carter Jensen, the Royals' third-round pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, is set to make his major league debut. The left-handed hitter impressed during 2025 spring training and spent the season at Double-A and Triple-A, showing improved defensive skills and power potential.
The platoon system is designed to optimize matchups, with the right-handed Perez facing left-handed pitchers and the left-handed Jensen facing right-handers. Team officials state this approach balances veteran leadership with youth development as the Royals aim to build a competitive roster.
