With the conclusion of the Pasadena Police Department’s investigation into Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer over alleged sexual assault, the L.A. County District Attorney decided not to bring criminal charges against him.
However, Bauer could still face civil charges and MLB commissioner Rob Manfred holds the authority to suspend him.
Bauer remains under contract for $32 million after exercising his option for the 2022 season, so if he is not suspended for the year, the Dodgers would have to make a decision if they still want him part of their organization.
If Bauer is able to return this season, some within the industry feel it is unlikely the Dodgers would be willing to let him play for them, according to Bill Shaikin of the L.A. Times:
Major league sources consider that unlikely, but the Dodgers have remained publicly silent on that question.
The investigation into Bauer by MLB remains ongoing and it is unlikely to conclude any time soon. In a statement, MLB said they will “comment further at an appropriate time.”
It’s widely believed MLB will suspend Bauer, but he likely would appeal and seek credit for time served last season that amounted to missing 81 games. Furthermore, MLB presumably will not take any sort of action until a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is in place.
The domestic violence and sexual assault policy with which Bauer was put on administrative leave under, technically expired with the 2017-2021 CBA. Thus far, 14 players have been suspended under the policy.
Dodgers decline to comment on Bauer
Like MLB, the Dodgers also declined to address the matter. “MLB is continuing their investigation,” they said in a statement. “We will have no further comment until it concludes.”
Bauer made 17 starts in his first season with the Dodgers. His paid administrative leave began July 2 and ultimately was extended through the World Series. Per terms of his three-year, $102 million contract, Bauer received a $20 million lump sum in November.
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