Rockies' Bard earns win in 1st MLB appearance since 2013
Colorado Rockies right-hander Daniel Bard completed a comeback seven years in the making on Saturday.
To make the outing even more special for the reliever, Bard earned the win over the Texas Rangers in his first appearance since April 27, 2013, which was 2,646 days ago. It also marks his first victory in seven years, two months, and 28 days.
And he hit 99. 🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/8eZfJc4LtU
— MLB (@MLB) July 25, 2020
"He said three words - that was fun," Rockies manager Bud Black said, according to The Associated Press.
"It's been a long wait. It feels good," Bard added. "Just trying to soak it in and enjoy every moment."
The 35-year-old was the first reliever the Rockies called on following 4 2/3 innings from Jon Gray, who yielded one run on three hits and three walks while striking out three.
Bard entered during the fifth and promptly retired Elvis Andrus on a flyout to end the frame. He gave up two singles in the next inning, but Bard escaped and struck out Rougned Odor.
After setting a franchise record with the Boston Red Sox for most consecutive scoreless outings at 25, Bard suddenly lost his control and was placed on waivers in 2013. He spent time with multiple minor-league organizations, then announced his retirement and took a coaching job with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2018.
Bard came out of retirement and accepted a non-roster invite from the Rockies. The hurler was told he made the team during summer camp.