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Royals captain Salvador Perez makes bold Maikel Garcia World Baseball Classic prediction<\/a> appeared first on ClutchPoints<\/a>. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n Kansas City Royals<\/a> catcher Salvador Perez<\/a> is already setting expectations ahead of the 2026 World Baseball Classic, offering strong public support for teammate Maikel Garcia as he prepares for his international debut.<\/p>\n Advertisement<\/p>\n Perez, who will serve as the captain<\/a> of Team Venezuela, spoke confidently about Garcia\u2019s readiness for the global stage. The endorsement marks a significant moment for Garcia, whose rise with Kansas City has accelerated rapidly over the past year.<\/p>\n The 25-year-old earned his spot on Team Venezuela\u2019s roster after a breakout 2025 season in which he hit .286 with 170 hits, 16 home runs, 74 RBIs, and 81 runs scored across 160 games, while also capturing his first Gold Glove award. His selection places another Royals player on one of baseball\u2019s biggest international stages and reflects the organization\u2019s growing global presence.<\/p>\n For the Royals, Garcia\u2019s inclusion further validates recent player development strides and showcases how homegrown talent is earning respect well beyond the American League.<\/p>\n Locked On Royals\u2019 Jack Johnson shared Perez\u2019s comments on X (formerly known as Twitter) following recent team activities, relaying the veteran catcher\u2019s confidence in<\/a> Garcia\u2019s mindset and preparation as the tournament approaches.<\/p>\n