By Jayson Henderson

Salvador Perez reached two major milestones with one swing Saturday night at Citizens Bank Park. The Royals catcher hit his 300th career home run and collected his 1,000th RBI with a third-inning shot off Phillies starter Taijuan Walker.

Perez became the eighth primary catcher in MLB history to hit 300 home runs and the 10th active player with 1,000 RBIs. He added another home run later, but the Royals fell to the Phillies 8-6, dropping below .500 at 74-75.

A Phillies fan returned the milestone ball without asking for anything in exchange, and Perez responded by giving jerseys, gloves, and other gear.

After the game, Perez reflected that winning would have meant more than personal achievements. Still, teammates and manager Matt Quatraro praised his leadership and example, noting his place as the cornerstone of the Royals’ clubhouse.