Kris Bryant Hits 60-Day IL, Worsening Rockies’ Struggling Contract
Kris Bryant’s ongoing struggle with injuries has led him to be placed on the 60-day injured list (IL) by the Colorado Rockies. This decision comes after persistent issues with his lower back, marking another challenging chapter for the former National League MVP.
Kris Bryant’s Injury Struggles
At 34 years old, Bryant has found it difficult to remain healthy since joining the Rockies five years ago. His recent stint on the 60-day IL adds to a growing list of injury-related setbacks. Over the past four seasons, the slugger has only participated in 170 out of 648 possible games due to various injuries.
Contract Overview
In the off-season of 2021, the Rockies signed Bryant to a substantial seven-year, $182 million contract. However, his performance has not met expectations, with a batting average of .244, 17 home runs, 61 RBIs, and an OPS of .695 during his time in the lineup. Last season, he managed to play only 11 games before being diagnosed with lumbar degenerative disc disease.
Impact on Career
Bryant’s career has faced significant hurdles, which were unforeseen during his early years. He debuted with the Chicago Cubs in 2015, earning the NL Rookie of the Year award, and later secured the MVP title in 2016. Despite his promising start, injuries have led to a drastic decline in his performance.
Performance and Future Prospects
- Kris Bryant’s current performance statistics:
- Batting Average: .244
- Home Runs: 17
- RBIs: 61
- OPS: .695
- 10th time on the injured list since joining the Rockies.
- Career appears to be at a critical juncture.
As Bryant continues to battle injuries, questions arise regarding his viability as a key player for the Rockies. His current situation highlights the vulnerability of athletes to injuries, significantly impacting their contributions to their teams.