Rockies get bad news about oft-injured former All-Star

Outfielder Kris Bryant has had trouble staying on the field for the Colorado Rockies. His latest medical issue may not bode well for his future.

Thomas Harding from MLB.com reported that Bryant has lumbar degenerative disk disease. He has been placed on the injured list with Harding indicating that a treatment plan remains unknown for now.

Bryant signed a seven-year, $182 million contract during the 2021-22 offseason, the largest free-agent deal in franchise history. A four-time All-Star and the 2016 NL MVP, Bryant had a typically solid season before entering the market. He produced a .265/.353/.481 batting line in 586 plate appearances between the Cubs and Giants in 2021, hitting 25 homers and 32 doubles, making him one of the top free agents that offseason.

The Rockies' decision to sign Bryant did not make much sense at the time. The Rockies had posted three consecutive losing seasons and did not appear to have a chance at contending in a division that included the Dodgers and Padres. Nonetheless, the Rockies had hoped that adding an impact bat such as Bryant would make a difference in their fortunes.

This contract has proven to be a disaster for the Rockies. Bryant has not appeared in more than 80 games in a season during his time in Colorado, as a litany of injuries has kept him sidelined, including back problems that ended his 2024 season.

Bryant has struggled as those injuries have taken a toll. He has posted a disappointing .222/.307/.335 batting line in 531 plate appearances since the start of the 2023 season, hitting 12 homers and 17 doubles. As there has yet to be any word regarding a treatment plan going forward, Bryant may not be on the diamond for the foreseeable future.