Full Breakdown
Trevor Bauer's No-Hitter Revives MLB Return Debate
4/28/2026, 6:32:35 AM
No-Hitter Overview
On April 26, 2026, at Penn Medicine Park in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Long Island Ducks right-hander Trevor Bauer threw a seven-inning no-hitter against the Lancaster Stormers. He delivered 84 pitches, struck out seven batters and issued a single walk after a pitch-clock violation. The Ducks won 13–0, marking the franchise’s third no-hitter and the first limited-innings effort.
Path to Return
Bauer’s last MLB appearance was June 28, 2021 with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was placed on administrative leave after sexual-assault allegations by Lindsey Hill, received a 324-game suspension later reduced to 194 (some reports cite 184), and was released in January 2023. He then pitched in Japan (2023, 2.59 ERA), Mexico (2024, 2.48 ERA, 13.0 K/9), and Japan again (2025, 4.41 ERA) before signing with the Ducks in April 2026.
Stats Snapshot
After the no-hitter Bauer’s season ERA stands at 1.64 over 11 innings (1-1, 15 K). He averaged 92–94 mph on his fastball, mixing cutters, a sweeper and a four-seam. An MLB scout noted “flashes of the guy he used to be” and solid breaking-ball movement. The performance is the ninth individual no-hitter in Atlantic League history.
Official Statements
Bauer said he looks forward to competing before U.S. fans again, wants to improve the second half of his career, and described himself as “blackballed” by MLB. He questioned the league’s reinstatement standards, referencing Pete Rose’s return, and expressed gratitude for fan support.
Criticism & Opposition
MLB has not offered Bauer a contract despite his completed suspension. The league’s Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy underpinned the suspension, and Hill, his accuser, claims MLB holds additional evidence; a court ordered her to pay $300,000 for breaching their settlement.
On-the-Ground
Fans in Lancaster chanted Bauer’s name, and he signed autographs after the game, including a chest-signing. He noted recent allergy attacks and said cold weather affected his velocity.
Conflicting Reports
Sources list the suspension reduction as either 194 or 184 games, and differ on whether the settlement with Hill occurred in 2023 or was reaffirmed by a 2026 court order. No MLB comment on a potential signing has been issued.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m blackballed,” — Trevor Bauer, Pitcher
- “Trevor Bauer sucks so much. He’s so washed.” — Trevor Bauer, Pitcher
- “He showed flashes of the guy he used to be and a guy who can help a club.” — Anonymous MLB scout
- “I’m looking forward to competing in front of U.S. fans again this season,” — Trevor Bauer, Pitcher
What’s Next
Bauer is slated to start for the Ducks on May 2, 2026, versus the Lexington Legends. MLB scouts will monitor his performance for possible major-league interest.
