During early spring training sessions, Kansas City Royals bench coach Paul Hoover closely observed catchers Salvador Perez and Freddy Fermin as they practiced pitch framing. Drawing on his experience from seven seasons as an MLB catcher, Hoover meticulously analyzed their positioning, glove placement, and overall body language. He understood how these elements needed to work together harmoniously to effectively assist the pitching staff. Hoover’s guidance has been instrumental in the improvement of both catchers, particularly evident in Perez’s enhanced pitch-framing metrics this season.
Perez acknowledged Hoover’s impact, stating, “He’s helped me a lot. We work a lot. If I see something, I go and tell him and he talks to the pitchers.” Hoover has developed strong bonds with multiple players, adeptly communicating information both on and off the field. His ability to connect with others stems in part from his upbringing.
Paul Hoover grew up in Steubenville, Ohio, where both of his parents were deaf, presenting potential challenges that many might not consider. In his upbringing, Hoover and his siblings relied on each other and their community for support. Sometimes, his sister would handle phone calls to local institutions like the bank or electric company, while Hoover himself would notify neighbors to alert his parents when he needed to be picked up after practice.
“We didn’t know any different,” Hoover reflected. “That was just life for us. We learned to communicate using sign language, to read body language and energy, and to find ways other than speaking.”
His parents, Monte Sr. and Paula, met in college where Monte was involved in football and track. Monte worked night shifts at the post office for over 30 years, starting each shift with a cup of McDonald’s coffee before returning home to support Hoover and his siblings with their school and activities.
“He taught me the value of hard work in providing for your family,” Hoover said of his father. “I learned by watching him go about his daily business. He supported us in everything we did. He was always there.”
Paula also played a significant role in Hoover’s upbringing, teaching him about accountability and responsibility. She provided guidance through tough times and offered advice.
“My mom ensured we understood accountability,” Hoover recalled. “If we misbehaved, there were consequences to teach us boundaries.”
These fundamental life lessons not only shaped Hoover as a player but were crucial in shaping him as a father as well.
With Father’s Day approaching this Sunday, Paul Hoover expresses gratitude for his parents who inspired him to become a better person, father, and leader both at home and on the team. Reflecting on their influence, Hoover appreciates their impact more with age, recognizing the profound lessons they imparted despite their hearing impairment.
“As you grow older, you begin to reflect and truly appreciate their contributions,” Hoover remarked. “Perhaps in the moment, you don’t fully grasp it, but over time, you come to understand and value it. As parents, setting aside their inability to hear, just appreciating what they’ve done for you.”
Now, Hoover strives to pass on these valuable life lessons to his own children. He has two daughters: Cameron, who is 18 and attending Murray State University on a basketball scholarship, and McKenna, who is 12 and passionate about dance.
“I take pride in my role as a father and in being there for my daughters,” Hoover emphasized. “Balancing the demands of travel is challenging, especially now that Cameron is in college. But my priority is to support them, teach them about life’s challenges and triumphs, and simply be present for them.”
