Colorado Rockies reliever Daniel Bard will undergo surgery on Wednesday to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, the team announced. The injury occurred during a throwing session last week, and there is currently no timetable for his return. Bard's absence will be felt as Rockies pitchers and catchers report for physicals ahead of the start of spring training in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Bard, who is entering the final season of a $19 million, two-year deal, described the moment he got injured, saying, 'I was playing normal catch stuff and I moved a little awkwardly and I felt something pop.' The Denver Post first reported the news of his injury.
The 36-year-old right-hander appeared in 50 games for the Rockies last season, recording a 4-2 record with a 4.56 ERA and one save. However, Bard missed some time at the beginning of the 2023 season due to anxiety issues that he experienced both on and off the field.
Bard's career has been marked by significant challenges and a remarkable comeback. After struggling with severe control issues, he took a break from baseball for seven years before signing with the Rockies ahead of the 2020 season. Despite his successful return, Bard's control problems resurfaced during the 2023 World Baseball Classic, where he had a rough showing with a 43.20 ERA in three appearances for the U.S. national team.
Drafted in the first round by the Boston Red Sox in 2006, Bard made his MLB debut in 2009 and experienced success as a closer, notching 34 saves in 2022. However, injuries and control issues have hampered his career trajectory at times.
This unfortunate injury comes at a crucial time for the Rockies, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 59-103 season in 2023, which marked the first 100-loss season in franchise history. Bard's absence will be a significant setback for the team, as they hope to elevate their performance in the upcoming season.
The Colorado Rockies will await further updates on Bard's recovery and will plan accordingly for the start of the season. In the meantime, the team will focus on getting their pitchers and catchers ready for spring training, aiming to make improvements and put their best foot forward in the upcoming campaign.
