Rutgers Ace Bailey Analyzes His Career and Dylan Harper’s Impact

Rutgers baseball ace Kyle Bailey has had a remarkable career, becoming one of the most decorated pitchers in program history. After a stellar 2023 season, he sat down to reflect on his journey and the impact of freshman sensation Dylan Harper.

Bailey’s Career Highlights

• Earned All-Big Ten First Team honors three times
• Named Big Ten Pitcher of the Year in 2023
• Recorded the program’s first no-hitter since 1979
• Ranks among Rutgers’ all-time leaders in wins, strikeouts, and ERA

Dylan Harper’s Emergence

Freshman shortstop Dylan Harper burst onto the scene in 2023, making an immediate impact on the Rutgers lineup.

“Dylan is a very exciting player,” Bailey said. “He has the potential to be a special talent. He’s very athletic, has a great arm, and hits for power.”

• Led Rutgers in batting average (.333), home runs (10), and runs batted in (45)
• Named Big Ten Freshman of the Year
• Hit a game-winning home run in the Big Ten Tournament semifinals

Harper’s Impact on Bailey

Harper’s arrival not only boosted the team’s offense but also had a positive impact on Bailey.

“Having Dylan behind me gives me a lot of confidence,” Bailey said. “I know our defense is going to make plays, which allows me to focus on attacking hitters.”

Rutgers head coach Steve Owens credited Harper for taking pressure off Bailey and allowing him to pitch with greater freedom.

Looking Ahead

Bailey will enter his senior season next year as one of the top pitchers in the country. With Harper continuing to grow and develop, the duo forms one of the most formidable pitcher-shortstop combinations in college baseball.

Owens is optimistic about the team’s chances in 2024.

“We have a lot of experience and talent coming back,” Owens said. “With Kyle leading our rotation and Dylan providing a spark in the lineup, I think we can compete for a Big Ten title and make some noise in the NCAA Tournament.”