Bryant returns to diamond after missing 31 games

May 22nd, 2024

OAKLAND -- adhered to the orders of doctors and athletic trainers in rehabbing his recurring low back strain, knowing that rushing his way back to the Rockies’ lineup could have increased the chance of the problem recurring. Only the Rockies’ recent seven-game win streak tested his patience.

“I had some FOMO, missing out on that winning streak,” said Bryant, who was activated from the 10-day injured list to start Tuesday night’s game against the Athletics at first base after missing 31 games with the injury. “I know the last series [a three-game Giants sweep] didn’t go quite as planned. But there was some really good baseball being played, so I’m excited to join the guys here.”

As always, the hope is that Bryant, 32, can produce the way the Rockies expected when they signed him for seven years and $182 million before the 2022 season.

Bryant struggled, hitting .149 before going on the IL for the sixth time in his career with Colorado. In five injury rehab games for Triple-A Albuquerque, Bryant was 3-for-20 with a double.

“The back of the baseball card tells us he’s going to be a big run producer,” Rockies manager Bud Black said.

It starts with staying on the field. Tuesday was his 136th game in a Rockies uniform since signing with the team two years ago.

“This last month, or the last couple of years, sometimes you take for granted being on the field,” Bryant said. “Now that I am feeling good and on the field again, I’m just ready to have some fun and not take it for granted, and see what happens.”

The Rockies optioned outfielder Sean Bouchard to Albuquerque to accommodate Bryant being added to the active roster.