March 31, 2023

By Devon Teeple

The GM’s Perspective

I wanted to discuss the incredible bravery of Daniel Bard, the former Boston Red Sox pitcher and current closer for the Colorado Rockies, who has openly shared his struggles with anxiety.

Despite facing criticism and negative comments regarding his performance on the field, Bard has shown immense courage in confronting and addressing his mental health challenges. By doing so, he’s not only helped to destigmatize mental health issues in sports, but also inspired others to seek help and prioritize their well-being.

The Struggles of a Star:

During a recent World Baseball Classic game, Daniel Bard had a tough outing against Venezuela, where he faced four batters without getting an out. This led to an outpouring of negative comments and criticism from the fans and public. The casual fan may not be aware that Bard has been through this before. From 2013 to 2019, Bard didn’t make an MLB appearance while battling an inability to throw strikes.

A Brave Step Forward:

Acknowledging his struggle, Bard said, “It’s a hard thing to admit… 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.” His decision to be transparent about his mental health is not only courageous but also contributes to normalizing discussions surrounding mental health in professional sports.

Strength in Unity:

Bard is certainly not alone in his struggle. Other professional athletes, such as Austin Meadows, Zack Greinke, and Andrelton Simmons, have also experienced mental health issues and taken time off from their careers to address them. By sharing their stories, these athletes are paving the way for a more understanding and supportive environment within the world of sports.

Bard’s bravery in speaking openly about his anxiety is a powerful reminder that it is okay to seek help and prioritize our mental well-being. As we continue to break down the stigma surrounding mental health in sports, let’s celebrate the courage of athletes like Bard who inspire us to face our own challenges with strength and resilience.