Trevor Bauer was designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Dodgers, signaling the end of his brief tenure with the team. The Dodgers faced a deadline last Friday to make a decision on whether or not Bauer would be added back onto their 40-man roster.
“The Dodgers organization believes that allegations of sexual assault or domestic violence should be thoroughly investigated, with due process given to the accused,” the team said in a statement.
“From the beginning, we have fully cooperated with Major League Baseball’s investigation and strictly followed the process stipulated under MLB’s Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy.
“Two extensive reviews of all the available evidence in this case – one by Commissioner Manfred and another by a neutral arbitrator – concluded that Mr. Bauer’s actions warranted the longest ever active player suspension in our sport for violations of this policy.
“Now that this process has been completed, and after careful consideration, we have decided that he will no longer be part of our organization.”
What’s next for Trevor Bauer?
In choosing to DFA Bauer, the Dodgers have seven days to potentially trade him. However, the likelihood of finding a team to take the enigmatic starter doesn’t figure to be high.
L.A. was said to have explored the possibility of a Bauer trade prior to making their decision last week.
Assuming the Dodgers do not complete a trade by Thursday afternoon, the 31-year-old will be placed on unconditional release waivers. Bauer presumably would go unclaimed — as no team would want to take on his contract — and reach free agency on Friday, January 13.
Will Bauer play again for the Dodgers?
Although Bauer technically remains under control of the Dodgers organization at present time, the team made it clear the Pasadena native does not have a future with the team.
How much money do Dodgers owe?
Nevertheless, the Dodgers are responsible for paying Bauer $22.5 million for the 2023 season. Should he sign with another team — presumably for the league minimum of $720,000 — that amount would be deducted from what the Dodgers owe.
The Dodgers signed Bauer to a three-year, $102 million contract in February 2021.
Are you following Dodger Blue on Instagram? It’s the best way to see exclusive coverage from games and events, get your questions answered, and more!
