Trevor Bauer hasn’t pitched for the Los Angeles Dodgers since June 28, but he has nevertheless remained in the spotlight amid allegations of sexual assault.
Claims brought forth by a San Diego woman prompted the Pasadena Police Department to launch an investigation, and Major League Baseball to place Bauer on administrative leave while also conducting their own probe into the matter.
Bauer recently was in court over four days for a hearing related to an ex parte restraining order that had been in place. L.A. Superior Court judge Dianna Gould-Saltman dismissed the temporary restraining order, bringing a conclusion to the civil matter.
Although that offered some clarity, Bauer’s administrative leave was extended and presumably will be for an eighth time later this week. Pasadena Police presented results of their investigation to the L.A. County District Attorney’s office, who will decide on potentially filing charges.
Amid the wait for that and possible disciplinary action that may come from MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, some within the league believe Bauer could face a suspension that lasts up to two years, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan:
The expectation around the sport is that the league would pursue a suspension of at least one year. Multiple sources suggested a possibility of a two-year suspension.
Even if criminal chargers are not filed, Manfred retains the authority to suspend Bauer under the joint domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse policy. At minimum, most have assumed Bauer will not return during the 2021 regular season.
Bauer signed a record-setting three-year, $102 million contract this past February. The deal includes a $32 million player option for the 2022 season, and an option at the same salary for 2023 as well.
Teammates reportedly don’t want Bauer to return
Regardless of how the investigations unfold, the chances of Bauer ever pitching again for the Dodgers could be in question. Most of the clubhouse is said to not want him back, and the organization previously replaced his bobblehead giveaway night and stopped selling Bauer merchandise.
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