Projected PawSox 2009- Daniel Bard

RHP Daniel Bard has an opportunity to make big strides in 2009.  As has been the case with highly touted pitching prospects Jonathan Paplebon, John Lester, Clay Buchholz, Justin Masterson, and Michael Bowden, Bard may find himself on the fast track to Boston if all goes well this season.

The Sox’ number one draft pick in 2006 out of the University of North Carolina, Bard has one of those power arms which can hurl a fastball consistently near 100mph.  He is still in need of some fine tuning when it comes to his secondary pitches.

Bard’s first season of professional ball in 2007 was well documented for its lack of success.  He finished the season a combined 3-7 with a 7.08 ERA at Single A Greenville and Lancaster.  Most glaring was his apparent lack of control, walking 78 batters in only 75 innings of work.

Signed to be a starter, Bard was converted to a reliever during his stint at offseason ball in Hawaii.  That move has made a big difference.  Last season Bard made marked improvements, combining for a 5-1 record and a slim 1.32 ERA in Greenville and Portalnd.  More importantly he cut down on his walks to 30 in 77.2 innings pitched.

It is possible Bard may start the season in Portland.  But with the number of veteran arms expected to be in the PawSox bullpen this season, it won’t be a surprise to see Bard in a Pawtucket uniform learning from their expereince before the warm weather kicks in.

Photo courtesy soxfan1.com