By Owen Liu
Professional pitcher and social media influencer Trevor Bauer, winner of the 2020 Cy Young award, is a highly controversial yet skilled baseball player. On April 29, 2022 he was suspended for 324 games (which was later reduced down to 194 games) following assault allegations, which subsequently led to his release from the LA Dodgers. As of today, he plays for the Long Island Ducks where he set a franchise record of 15 strikeouts in 1 game. Additionally, he proves to be a very dominant pitcher giving up only 4 runs while striking out 41 batters in 28 innings. He even managed to pitch a 7-inning no hitter against the Lancaster Stormers.
When comparing Trevor Bauer’s pitching abilities to current, top level pitchers in the MLB like Cam Schlittler and Christopher Sanchez, he is outmatched in nearly all categories. However, he can still compete and pitch at a high level with decent efficiency. Constantly throwing 94-98 mph despite his age is impressive, but what is even more impressive is his nasty cutter and devastating sweeper. But by far his best pitch is his curveball. It leaves hitters guessing whether they swing and miss or get frozen by it. If he were to return, his current menacing pitching abilities and elite arsenal would prove to be invaluable. Additionally, he has continued to improve his stuff outside the MLB in Japan’s NPB and Mexican league (LMB) which shows his ability to compete at the highest level despite his suspension.
However, the fact of the matter is that if a MLB team were to sign him, they would potentially face intense public scrutiny and backlash despite the fact that Bauer was never criminally charged. Trevor Bauer has expressed interest in rejoining the MLB for league minimum or even for free; however, Future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols said that Bauer could return to the MLB but would need to be on good terms with the organization instead of publicly criticizing them stating, “you can’t go against the hands that really feeds you.”
Bauer also expressed interest in going back to the MLB through his YouTube channel, “Trevor Bauer” and his Instagram page @baueroutage. Through these channels, he showcases his veteran presence by sharing helpful tips to the youth while also helping out his own teammates in the process.
All in all, Trevor Bauer’s return would be extremely controversial but highly valuable to whatever team were to sign him. His experience and proven track record still shows elite performance and dominance. His presence in the bullpen can also help pitchers develop and grow, just like he did. However, his past and criticism of the league holds him back.
