PHOENIX -- Bailey Falter is stepping into spring training with a newfound confidence, and it's not going unnoticed. His fresh perspective? It’s all thanks to a little bundle of joy named Dean, whom he and his wife, Kylee, welcomed last November.
Falter describes this shift as becoming “clearer-minded.” It’s a change driven by fatherhood, and it's transformed his outlook on life and baseball.
“Baseball used to consume me,” Falter shared. “I’d beat myself up over bad days. Now, no matter what happens on the field, I know Dean’s there to lift my spirits.”
He even joked with his wife, “We should have done this years ago.” This new mindset has him feeling freer and more prepared than ever.
As spring training unfolds, Falter is in the mix for a spot in the Royals’ rotation. While Noah Cameron seems to have a slight edge, thanks to an impressive rookie season, Falter is making his case alongside pitchers like Stephen Kolek and Ryan Bergert.
Falter’s first outing was promising, delivering two scoreless innings in the Royals’ 7-3 victory over the Brewers. It’s a stark contrast to his rocky start with the Royals last year after being acquired from the Pirates. Early struggles saw him moved to the bullpen, ending the season with an 11.25 ERA and a stint on the injured list.
“It felt like one setback after another,” manager Matt Quatraro commented. “But now, he’s mentally in a better place, physically fit, and the ball’s coming out lively. He’s the total package.”
Even if Falter doesn’t secure a starting role, he’s ready to contribute from the bullpen, as he’s out of options and must be on the 26-man roster to remain with the Royals.
Reflecting on his role for the upcoming season, Falter emphasized his team-first mentality.
“Of course, I’d love a starting spot,” Falter said. “But after having my son, I’m focused on what the team needs. Whether that’s starting, bullpen, or any role, I’m here to help us win the division, the pennant, and reach the postseason.”
Physically, Falter is looking sharp, too. He’s been working on his fastball velocity, aiming to add a few extra ticks.
On Sunday, his four-seamer averaged 92.8 mph, a slight increase from last year. His outing was marked by weak contact and efficiency.
“Every offseason, I get stronger. Maybe it’s ‘dad strength,’” Falter joked.
“We’ve been doing more drills with my weighted ball program. If I can hit 93-95 mph, maybe touch 96, that’d be great.”
This offseason, Falter also refined his changeup to better challenge right-handed hitters and worked on his slider, despite some spin issues in his recent game.
No matter the outcome this spring, Falter is clear on two things: he’ll give his all on the field, and when he’s home, he’s all about family.
“I married a saint,” Falter said, appreciating Kylee’s support. “She handles everything so I can focus on baseball.
But once I’m home, it’s dad mode. I tell the guys, ‘My real day starts when I get home.’
And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”