Daniel Bard, Boston Red Sox Starting Pitcher, Sent Back To Minors


Daniel Bard has been send back to the minors by the Boston Red Sox, who officially optioned him to Class AAA Pawtucket (R.I.) on Tuesday.

Bard has struggled in his first full season as a starting pitcher for the Sox, ahd has a 5-6 record with a 5.24 ERA, according to USA Today. He has struck out a total of 34 batters in 55 innings, but has already tallied up 37 walks, proving he has struggled to find the strike zone.

Chad Finn of Boston.com doesn’t necessarily agree with the ruling, which was handed down late Tuesday, stating that other pitchers, like Nolan Ryan, Tom Seaver, Bob Feller, John Smoltz and Kerry Wood have also struggled initially, but turned their stats around. Finn wrote that:

“The point is one we should always remember: Patience is essential with even the most gifted pitchers when they’re making a significant adjustment or attempting a new role.”

Bobby Valentine, manager for the Boston Red Sox, stated of Daniel Bard’s move that:

“Ben [Cherington] and I met yesterday and we met with the coaches today. We felt it was the best thing for the organization and Daniel to work on his mechanics and not have to worry about his big league record and teammates. He thinks it will be a quick turnaround.”

After Sunday’s game against Toronto, Bard stated of his pitching difficulties, according to ESPN, that:

“There’s no reason the way I threw the ball out of the bullpen shouldn’t translate to starting. I know it’s not exactly the same. We’ve tried to change too many things. We just need to get back to being simple.”

Do you think that Bobby Valentine and Ben Cherington are making the right decision in sending Daniel Bard back to the minors for an undisclosed period of time?

Share this article: Daniel Bard, Boston Red Sox Starting Pitcher, Sent Back To Minors
More from Inquisitr