It was announced on opening day that closing pitcher [autotag]Daniel Bard[/autotag] would not partake in opening day. Instead, he would be on the injury list battling anxiety.
The former Tar Heel was stellar at UNC, finishing with a 23-12 record, with an ERA of 3.86 in 270 innings. His success at North Carolina led him to get drafted by the Boston Redsox in the first round of the 2006 MLB draft. However, after a brief stint in the minors, Bard would retire due to yips.
Seven years later, Bard returned to the mound after getting picked up by the Colorado Rockies. Again, he displayed his Tar Heel magic leading to significant recognition by being awarded NL Comeback Player of the Year and snagging the Tony Conigliaro Award.
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
Bard finished last season as one of the best closers the MLB had to offer, finishing third in the NL for saves (34), leading to a two-year 19 million dollar deal.
Bard has become a success story and a true inspiration to many. Fans thanked the Rockies for adequately handling such a vital topic and showed their love for Bard.
Let’s look at how Twitter supported the former Tar Heel.