Why is Trevor Bauer not in the MLB?

By Oliver Wiener March 27, 2024 10:19

Photo by AP Photo/Jae C. Hong, File

Former Cy Young Award winner Trevor Bauer has been absent from Major League Baseball since June 2021. In this comprehensive analysis, we'll put the former ace under the microscope and take a look into the various factors contributing to his absence from the MLB, including the allegations of sexual assault, his suspension, off-field controversies, and his attempts at a professional comeback.

Allegations of Sexual Assault and Suspension

The Allegations: Four women have alleged that Trevor Bauer sexually assaulted them. These allegations have been a significant factor contributing to his absence from the MLB.
Legal Proceedings: While Bauer has never been criminally charged, MLB conducted its own investigation into the allegations, resulting in a 194-game suspension, the longest under the joint domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy.

Legal and Public Relations Challenges

Legal Battles: Instead of accepting a suspension and moving forward, Bauer chose to sue six parties for defamation, and one of the accusers countersued for battery and sexual assault, keeping the allegations in the spotlight.
Public Image and Reputation: Bauer's reputation in baseball, pre-suspension, has been a cause for concern. He has been known for his combative and controversial behavior, both on and off the field, which has contributed to the challenges he faces in making a return to the MLB.

Attempts at a Comeback

Pitching in Japan: After his suspension, Bauer pitched in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) with the Yokohama BayStars, where he had a successful season, raising questions about the quality of competition in Japan and its impact on his potential return to the MLB.
Seeking a Professional Opportunity: Despite being a free agent, Bauer expressed his willingness to play for the league minimum, emphasizing that he has served his suspension and been cleared of legal wrongdoing, and therefore, should have the opportunity to sign with a big league team.

League's Response and Public Perception

League's Position: The MLB has not listed Bauer as a free agent, leading to speculation about the impact of his reputation and the allegations against him on his professional opportunities.
Public Perception: The public's perception of Bauer, his off-field behavior, and the allegations against him have also played a significant role in his absence from the MLB.

Current Status and Future Prospects

Recent Showcases: Bauer recently pitched against Dodgers minor leaguers with a Japanese tryout team, where he demonstrated his pitching abilities, aiming to prove that he is still an elite pitcher deserving of a second chance in the MLB.
Challenges Ahead: While Bauer continues to seek an opportunity to play in the MLB, the challenges posed by his reputation, legal battles, and the allegations against him present significant hurdles in his quest for a professional comeback.

As stated above, Trevor Bauer's absence from Major League Baseball can be attributed to a plethora of factors, and As Bauer continues to navigate these challenges, the path to a potential return to the MLB remains uncertain, with public perception and the league's response playing pivotal roles in determining his future in professional baseball.