The demise of Daniel Bard
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| (Photo taken and provided by the Texas Rangers) |
Contributing Writer
Sometimes you have to write about things you don't want to talk about.
Sometimes you have to report on things you wouldn't wish on anyone.
This is one of those times.
Daniel Bard was a rock solid performer out of the bullpen for the Red Sox from 2009 to 2011. He pitched in 192 games posting a 2.88 ERA and 1.06 WHIP. He struck out 213 over 197 innings.
But then he wanted to become a starting pitcher, pushed hard to make it happen and got the chance in 2012. He did not pitch particularly well in spring training in 2012 but started the season in the rotation and was 5-5 with a 4.56 ERA in his first 10 games.
By June of 2012 he had his final appearance against Toronto where he walked six batters, hit two, and was pulled in the second inning. He was optioned to the minors days later.
In 2013, he pitched in 16 minor league games providing only 15 1/3 innings of work. He allowed 11 earned runs on 14 hits with 27 walks and 11 wild pitches. He did appear in two major league games for the Red Sox that year with poor results.
The Cubs claimed Bard off waivers last September but did not use him.
In 2014 Bard signed with the Rangers after having thoracic outlet surgery to improve nerve function in his arm. He was hopeful that the surgery would provide an answer to his problems.
It was not the magic wand he was looking for.
Bard pitched in four games for Single A Hickory this season, facing 18 batters. He walked nine, hit seven, and had one strikeout. He allowed 13 earned runs and was released on Thursday according to the Dallas Morning News.
Bard is 28 years old.
Since the start of the 2012 season, in 70 major league and minor league games, Bard has a 7.56 ERA with 110 walks, 25 hit batters and 21 wild pitches over 108 1/3 innings.
How can a quality pitcher like Bard just lose control of where they are throwing the baseball? Who knows, but it happens.
Taps is playing in the distance as the sun sets on Daniel Bard's professional baseball career.
Post a comment or via twitter @ericschabell with your thoughts.
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