Kolby Allard Bio
Kolby Kenneth Allard is an American professional baseball pitcher who is currently a free agent. He has previously played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Atlanta Braves, Texas Rangers, Philadelphia Phillies, and Cleveland Guardians. Allard was selected by the Braves with the 14th overall pick in the first round of the 2015 MLB draft, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Early Life and Background
Kolby Allard was born on August 13, 1997, in Anaheim, California, to parents Kenny and Kristi. He has a younger brother and began playing baseball at the age of five, focusing on pitching when he turned ten. Allard attended San Clemente High School in San Clemente, California, where he excelled as a pitcher. During his junior year, he achieved a 1.32 earned run average (ERA) with 98 strikeouts over 62 and two-thirds innings pitched. His performance earned him a spot in the Perfect Game All-American Classic, where he was named MVP after striking out the side in his inning. In addition, he played for the USA Baseball 18U National Team, showcasing his talent on a larger stage. Allard’s senior season was cut short due to a stress fracture in his back, but prior to the injury, he was projected to be a top 10 pick in the 2015 MLB Draft. He committed to play college baseball for the UCLA Bruins before entering the draft.
Path to Baseball
The Atlanta Braves selected Kolby Allard with the 14th pick in the first round of the 2015 Major League Baseball draft. His high school batterymate, Lucas Herbert, was also drafted by the Braves, 54th overall. Allard signed with the Braves on July 9, 2015, for $3 million. He began his professional career pitching for the Gulf Coast League Braves in August 2015. After three scoreless appearances, he underwent back surgery, described as a minor procedure, which limited his early participation. In 2016, Allard played for both the Rome Braves and Danville Braves, further developing his skills. By 2017, he was pitching for the Mississippi Braves and was invited to spring training in 2018, where he began the season with the Gwinnett Stripers. His performance there included a 2.80 ERA and 87 strikeouts over 109 and one-third innings, leading to his promotion to the major leagues.
Kolby Allard Career
Early Career (2015-2018)
Kolby Allard made his major league debut on July 31, 2018, pitching five innings against the Miami Marlins. He allowed four earned runs on five hits, along with two walks and one strikeout. At the age of 20, Allard became the youngest left-handed pitcher since Charlie Vaughan in 1966 to record a win in his debut. He opened the 2019 season with the Gwinnett Stripers, achieving a 7-5 record with a 4.17 ERA over 110 innings.
Breakthrough (2019-2023)
On July 30, 2019, Kolby Allard was traded to the Texas Rangers in exchange for Chris Martin. He made an immediate impact, going 4-2 with a 4.96 ERA in nine starts for Texas. However, his performance fluctuated in subsequent seasons. In 2020, he struggled significantly, finishing with a 0-6 record and a 7.75 ERA. The following year, he posted a 3-12 record with a 5.41 ERA, leading the American League in losses. In 2022, Allard returned to the Atlanta Braves after being traded in exchange for Jake Odorizzi. He faced injuries during this stint, including a Grade 2 right oblique strain, which hampered his season. In 2023, he recorded a 0-1 record with a 6.57 ERA in 12.1 innings pitched.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Kolby Allard has faced challenges and injuries but has also shown resilience and potential as a pitcher. His journey through various teams has highlighted his ability to adapt and strive for improvement.
Kolby Allard Award Nominations
Kolby Allard has not received any major award nominations during his career thus far.
Kolby Allard Awards Won
Kolby Allard has not won any notable awards during his professional baseball career.
Kolby Allard Family
Kolby Allard was born to Kenny and Kristi Allard. He has a younger brother, but further details about his family life are not publicly available.
Personal Life
There is limited public information regarding Kolby Allard’s personal life, including his marital status and relationships. He remains focused on his professional baseball career as he continues to seek opportunities as a free agent.
