Injuries are commonplace for athletes, who have to use their bodies to the fullest while playing a sport. Physical injuries look more common because of the nature of their career. But mental health is also a big factor that plays a major role in an athlete’s life. Being in the spotlight isn’t easy for anyone. When it comes to Major League Baseball, a lot of players have taken time off from the game to focus on their mental well-being. Recently, it was Daniel Bard of the Colorado Rockies that made the injured list for the 2023 season.

Bard pitches for the NL West team and has been an outstanding player. While his numbers would leave anyone envious of his skill, the Rockies pitcher will be taking some time off this season. His most recent appearance was at the World Baseball Classic, where a loss of control over the ball caused an injury to a player.

Daniel Bard will start the season on the injured list due to anxiety

Talkin’ Baseball announced the news about the 37-year-old pitcher on Twitter. During the WBC, Bard played for Team USA but struggled in a game against Venezuela. He lost control over his pitch against Jose Altuve and broke his hand. The Houston Astros’ second baseman is now expected to be back in June. But it was an incident that shook Bard.

“It’s a hard thing to admit. But I’ve been through this before,” the pitcher told reporters. He continued, “I have enough going on outside the game to realize what’s important. I’m extremely grateful to be in an organization that understands these things and is accepting.”

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Indeed, after a stellar 2011 season, things started to go downhill for the 37-year-old. In 2013, he only played two major league games and later pitched in several minor league games until 2017, when he became a mentor. He came back in 2020 with the Rockies, however, and even won the NL Comeback Player of the Year Award.

Baseball fans lect their support to Bard and the Colorado Rockies

Mental health and mental health issues are sensitive topics. But the comments section of Talkin’ Baseball’s post was full of support. This goes on to show just how much the world has changed recently, as one person pointed out.

Fans lent their support with messages of love.

Some fans commended the Rockies organization for being so supportive.

While some nay-sayers couldn’t believe the situation and even went as far as mocking everyone involved, most people only wished Bard good health.

Talking about the game, Opening Day for the Rockies went well, as they defeated the mighty San Diego Padres 7-2 in Petco Park.

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