Royals Sign Veteran Catcher to Support All-Star Perez

Elias Diaz, a 35-year-old with 11 MLB seasons, joins the Kansas City Royals on a minor league deal.

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

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The Kansas City Royals have signed veteran catcher Elias Diaz to a minor league contract, adding depth behind their star catcher Salvador Perez. Diaz, 35, has played in 11 MLB seasons and will provide experienced backup support for Perez, who continues to be a key part of the Royals' lineup.

Why it matters

Depth at the catcher position is crucial for any MLB team, and the Royals are bolstering their options behind Perez, who has been a durable and productive player for the franchise. Diaz's veteran experience and familiarity with the rigors of the big leagues will be valuable in supporting Perez and the Royals' pitching staff.

The details

Diaz, a 35-year-old catcher, has played in 11 MLB seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Colorado Rockies, and Miami Marlins. He will join the Royals on a minor league contract, providing experienced depth and support behind Perez, the Royals' star catcher who has been a fixture in their lineup for the past decade.

  • The Royals announced the signing on February 20, 2026.

The players

Salvador Perez

The Kansas City Royals' star catcher who has been a key part of their lineup for the past decade.

Elias Diaz

A 35-year-old catcher with 11 MLB seasons of experience, who has played for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Colorado Rockies, and Miami Marlins.

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The takeaway

The Royals' signing of veteran catcher Elias Diaz provides important depth and experience behind their All-Star catcher Salvador Perez, ensuring the team has a reliable backup option to support their star player and pitching staff.