Billy Butler hit his 22nd home run of the season on Tuesday night, a two-run shot off Chicago White Sox reliever Nate Jones in the Royals 5-2 victory on Tuesday evening.
For Butler, the shot now gives him a career high, breaking the mark he had originally set back in 2009.
In addition, he now had 69 RBI's on the year, after finishing last season with 95. He is on pace to drive in 103 this season.
The difference we have seen this season is fewer doubles, because of his increased home run percentage. Back in 2009, 11.48 of all of his hits were home runs. That was previously the highest percentage until this year's sudden charge where 17.36% of all of Butler's hits are now home runs.
However to go along with the 21 home runs in 2009, Butler also did hit 51 doubles. Thus far in 2012 he only has 17.
Where will he end up? WIll he break Steve Balboni's 36 home runs?
I doubt it, but I wouldn't be surprised to see Butler end up with 30 home runs and 100 RBI before the season ends.
For the future of Kansas City baseball, that is great production for someone still just 26 years of age.