Trevor Bauer Signs with Long Island Ducks: A Return to U.S. Baseball

Trevor Bauer, the former National League Cy Young Award winner, has signed with the Long Island Ducks of the independent Atlantic League, marking his return to pitching in the United States. Scheduled to start on April 21 for the Ducks' opening night at Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip, New York, this move comes after a lengthy absence from Major League Baseball (MLB) due to a 194-game suspension related to sexual assault allegations, which Bauer has consistently denied.

Troy RecordESPNFormer Cy Young winner Trevor Bauer joins Ducks, eyes MLB return

Bauer, 35, last pitched in the MLB in June 2021 with the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he had signed a three-year, $102 million contract. Following allegations of sexual abuse, he was placed on administrative leave and subsequently suspended under MLB's domestic violence policy. Although he was never charged with a crime, the suspension was initially set at 324 games before being reduced to 194 games after an appeal in December 2022. He was released by the Dodgers in January 2023 and has since played professionally in Japan and Mexico.

Dodgers’ $102 million bust signs with surprising New York team

Bauer's career has been marked by both accolades and controversy. He won the Cy Young Award in 2020 while with the Cincinnati Reds, posting a 5-4 record and a 1.73 ERA during the pandemic-shortened season. However, his professional trajectory shifted dramatically following the allegations in 2021. After his suspension, Bauer pitched in Japan for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars and was named the Mexican Baseball League's pitcher of the year in 2024 while playing for the Diablos Rojos of Mexico City.

Trevor Bauer Joins Long Island Ducks, Pitches Opening Night on April 21Dodgers’ $102 million bust signs with surprising New York teamFormer Cy Young winner Trevor Bauer joins Ducks, eyes MLB return

In a statement regarding his signing, Bauer expressed enthusiasm about competing in front of U.S. fans again, stating, “The Ducks have had some incredible players come through their organization, and I’m excited to be part of that tradition.” Ducks President Michael Pfaff highlighted Bauer's talent and knowledge as significant assets to the team, noting that the organization is pleased to offer him an opportunity to showcase his skills to MLB clubs.

Troy Record

Despite the excitement surrounding his return, Bauer's signing has not been without criticism. Many fans and commentators remain divided over his past allegations and the implications of his return to professional baseball. Concerns about how he will be received by fans and the potential impact on the Ducks' community have been raised, reflecting ongoing societal debates about accountability and redemption in sports.

Troy Record

Bauer's first three scheduled starts with the Long Island Ducks are set for April 21, April 26, and May 2. In a unique approach, he will be mic'd up for all games and practices, providing fans with unprecedented access to his experience with the team. This initiative aims to create engaging content for both Bauer's and the Ducks' social media platforms.

News 12 New York

• “I’m looking forward to competing in front of U.S. fans again this season,” — Trevor Bauer

New York Post

• “His talent and knowledge will be important additions to our ballclub, and we are happy to offer him this opportunity to showcase his talents to MLB clubs,” — Michael Pfaff, Ducks President

Troy Record

• “Whether it was NPB or Mexico or other teams in MLB partner leagues, he chose Long Island because he saw it was the best possible showcase to get back to Major League Baseball.” — Michael Pfaff, Ducks GM

Newsday

Bauer's return to U.S. baseball with the Long Island Ducks represents a significant chapter in his career, as he seeks to rebuild his professional reputation while navigating the complexities of his past.

News 12 New York