Daniel Bard's journey through Major League Baseball is a tale of perseverance and reinvention. Born on June 25, 1985, in Houston, Texas, Bard grew up with a passion for baseball, eventually attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he honed his skills as a pitcher. His talent on the mound caught the attention of scouts, and in 2006, the Boston Red Sox selected him in the first round of the MLB Draft.
Bard made his MLB debut with the Red Sox in 2009, quickly establishing himself as a reliable relief pitcher. His fastball, often clocked in the high 90s, and his sharp slider made him a formidable presence in the bullpen. During his early years with the Red Sox, Bard was a key component of the team's relief corps, often serving as a setup man for closer Jonathan Papelbon. In 2010, Bard posted a remarkable 1.93 ERA over 73 appearances, solidifying his reputation as one of the league's top relievers.
However, Bard's career took an unexpected turn in 2012 when he transitioned from the bullpen to the starting rotation. The move proved challenging, and Bard struggled with control issues, leading to a decline in performance. His difficulties on the mound were compounded by a condition known as the "yips," a mental block that affected his ability to throw strikes consistently. As a result, Bard spent much of the 2012 season bouncing between the majors and minors, unable to regain his previous form.
The following years were marked by a series of setbacks. Bard was designated for assignment by the Red Sox in 2013 and subsequently claimed off waivers by the Chicago Cubs. Unfortunately, his struggles persisted, and he was released by the Cubs without making an appearance. Bard then signed minor league deals with several teams, including the Texas Rangers, St. Louis Cardinals, and New York Mets, but continued to battle control issues.
Despite these challenges, Bard remained determined to return to the majors. After stepping away from professional baseball for a few years, he made a remarkable comeback attempt in 2020. Bard signed a minor league contract with the Colorado Rockies and impressed during spring training, earning a spot on the team's Opening Day roster. His return to the majors was met with widespread acclaim, as he not only overcame his previous struggles but also excelled on the mound. Bard finished the 2020 season with a 3.65 ERA and six saves, earning the National League Comeback Player of the Year award.
Bard continued to pitch for the Rockies in 2021, serving as the team's closer for much of the season.
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