Kris Bryant Faces Daily Pain but Has No Retirement Plans
Kris Bryant has reported to the Colorado Rockies’ spring training but is facing significant challenges due to ongoing health issues. With a degenerative back condition, the 34-year-old outfielder is currently unable to compete, as he described feeling unstable with each step.
Kris Bryant’s Health Struggles
Despite donning Rockies gear at Salt River Fields, Bryant is sidelined with lumbar degenerative disc disease. This condition has severely impacted his daily life and career. He stated, “Any time my feet hit the ground, I feel like I could probably fall over.”
Management confirmed that Bryant has been placed on the 60-day injured list, indicating that he will not play this season. Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer noted, “The guy’s back really hurts, and he’s having a tough time progressing.”
Career Overview and Financials
Since signing a franchise-record seven-year, $182 million contract with the Rockies in 2022, Bryant has played only 170 games. His performance includes a batting average of .244, 17 home runs, and 61 RBIs. With three years left on his contract, the Rockies owe him an estimated $81 million.
Physical and Emotional Toll
The struggle with his back pain has pushed Bryant to seek various treatments, including an ablation procedure and physical therapy, but he reports limited success. “It’s not easy waking up in pain every day,” he shared. “I’m just trying to determine the next step with the training staff and doctors.”
His emotional outlook remains hopeful, as he expressed, “I have to cling to hope. I could never have expected this or seen this coming.”
Support from Teammates and Management
Schaffer empathizes with Bryant, stating, “It’s tough for him, and we have to be here to support him. When he’s around, it’s to the benefit of the young players.”
While retirement looms as a possibility, Bryant is focused on finding a way to alleviate his daily pain. As he faces the harsh reality of his condition, he refuses to fully concede to the idea of ending his career.
- Age: 34 years old (birthday last month)
- Contract: Seven-year, $182 million signed before the 2022 season
- Games Played with Rockies: 170
- Current Contract Value Remaining: $81 million
As Bryant continues to navigate this challenging chapter, his experience may offer valuable lessons for both himself and his teammates in coping with adversity.
