Colorado Rockies Place Closer On 15-Day IL With Anxiety Issues

Colorado Rockies closer Daniel Bard has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to anxiety issues that resurfaced during a World Baseball Classic game in March.

Bard, who battled the yips and missed seven seasons of his career before making a comeback in 2020, was set to be the Rockies' main closer for the 2023 season after securing 34 saves for the team last year.

NEWS: #Rockies closer Daniel Bard is starting the season on the injured list with anxiety. He’s decided to be open and honest about what he’s going through instead of trying to hide it.

He had the yips earlier in his career and spent seven years out of the majors.

— Danielle Allentuck (@d_allentuck) March 30, 2023

In a recent game for Team USA, Bard struggled with control and gave up four runs on one hit and two walks, hitting Jose Altuve with an inside pitch that broke the Houston Astros' second baseman's hand.

Bard has been open and transparent about his struggles with anxiety and has stated that taking time to work through his issues is the best approach.

The Rockies have not provided a timeline for his return.

Daniel Bard will start the season on the IL with anxiety. Bard previously had a seven-year gap in his MLB career caused by the yips

“It’s a hard thing to admit… I have enough going on outside the game to realize what’s important.”

(via @d_allentuck) pic.twitter.com/zTaTqVNYUY

— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) March 30, 2023

While Bard is out, Jake Bird, 27, will take his spot on the roster. Third baseman Mike Moustakas, who signed a minor league deal with Colorado late in the spring, has also been named to the Rockies' Opening Day roster.

It's good to see Bard being open and honest about his mental health struggles. Bard's battles with the yips and his remarkable comeback are a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the game.

The Rockies' understanding and acceptance of his situation is also commendable and sends a positive message about the importance of supporting athletes' mental health. Photo Credit:  Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports