Kris Bryant’s Contract Poses Dilemma for Rockies
Kris Bryant’s future with the Colorado Rockies hangs in the balance, casting a long shadow over the franchise. The outfielder, who signed a seven-year, $182 million contract before the 2022 season, has been sidelined for a staggering 478 games due to an array of injuries, including the latest hurdle: lumbar degenerative disk disease.
Injury Struggles and Treatment Options
Bryant’s ongoing battle with injuries has led to significant uncertainty regarding his career. This particular condition has already necessitated an ablation procedure aimed at alleviating pain signals. Additionally, he has sought consultation about an “experimental treatment” in Dallas, which could potentially avoid the need for surgery.
The Rockies’ ideal scenario involves Bryant returning to the field and fulfilling the final three years of his contract. However, the reality of his degenerative condition raises concerns about the feasibility of that outcome. Given that his contract is guaranteed, Colorado is bound to pay him the remaining $78 million regardless of his ability to play.
Looking to Angels for Solutions
In search of a solution, the Rockies might draw inspiration from the Los Angeles Angels’ recent dealings with third baseman Anthony Rendon. The Angels recently agreed to defer the final year of Rendon’s contract, providing much-needed financial relief. Rendon, who signed a seven-year, $245 million deal prior to the 2020 season, has played only 245 games for the team and is owed $38 million despite not being on the field in 2026.
This precedent raises the question: could the Rockies pursue a similar route with Bryant? To execute such a strategy, they would need to navigate a complex approval process involving Major League Baseball, the MLB Players’ Association, and Bryant’s agent, Scott Boras.
Potential Contract Restructuring
If the Rockies can secure the necessary approvals, the next challenge would be determining the structure of any deferred payments. Currently, Bryant is set to earn $26 million in each of the next three seasons. Should he remain unable to play, the Rockies could explore redistributing the remainder of his contract over a longer term, perhaps extending it to seven years at an approximate rate of $11.1 million per year. This approach could alleviate some immediate financial pressure as the team looks to rebuild.
Hope for a Return to Form
Despite the daunting circumstances, the Rockies would welcome Bryant’s return to the lineup, hoping he can replicate his career averages of .273 batting average, .368 on-base percentage, and .483 slugging. However, the uncertainty surrounding his health casts a long shadow on any optimism.
As the Rockies navigate this precarious situation, the lessons learned from the Angels’ dealings could provide a pathway to mitigate the long-term ramifications of Bryant’s contract—if he cannot return to form. The clock is ticking, and the franchise must act judiciously to protect its future.
