Kris Bryant’s 2026 season is off to a rough start as he joins the Colorado Rockies’ 60-day injured list due to ongoing back problems. The team announced the move on Tuesday, just before pitchers and catchers were set to begin spring training in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Ongoing Battle With Back Pain and Limited Playtime
The decision comes after Bryant appeared in only 11 games last season, with his back condition worsening. Last year, Bryant underwent an ablation procedure to treat lumbar degenerative disc disease, a persistent issue that has hampered his performance since joining the Rockies.
Contract and Performance Challenges Mount for Bryant
Now in the fifth year of his seven-year, $182 million contract signed in 2022, Bryant has struggled to stay on the field. In his four seasons with Colorado, he has missed 478 of 648 possible games, playing less than half of each campaign. His WAR (Wins Above Replacement) stands at minus-1.5 since joining the Rockies, with only 2022 marking a positive contribution. His batting average has steadily declined from .303 in 2022 to .154 in last year’s limited action.
Uncertainty Clouds Bryant’s Return to the Diamond
With Bryant starting spring training on the injured list, the Rockies face questions about their slugger’s availability and ability to contribute moving forward. His ongoing back difficulties pose a significant challenge not only to his personal career but also to the team’s lineup and overall competitiveness.
The Colorado Rockies announced today that they have agreed to a one-year contract with RHP Tomoyuki Sugano. pic.twitter.com/msL4ctfl3W
— Rockies Club Information (@RockiesClubInfo) February 10, 2026
