Trevor Bauer shared a letter from Major League Baseball warning of a potential fine should he continue promoting brands during starts for the Los Angeles Dodgers. MLB specifically called into question an undershirt and belt Bauer has worn in his Cactus League outings thus far.
Both featured the “Bauer Outage” logo that is found on Bauer’s website and merchandise. They are within the Dodgers’ uniform colors, but as MLB explained in their letter, violations of two different rules.
This of course isn’t the first time Bauer and the commissioner’s office have been at odds over an apparel issue. While pitching for the Cincinnati Reds last season, Bauer intended to wear “Free Joe Kelly” cleats in a start against the Kansas City Royals that would then be auctioned.
However, MLB warned of a punishment if Bauer followed through with the plan. He obliged, but not without criticizing MLB commissioner Rob Manfred on Twitter.
MLB: we can’t market players if they don’t want to market themselves
Player: markets himself
MLB: THAT IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED WE ARE GOING TO FINE YOU IF YOU DO THAT AGAIN— Trevor Bauer (トレバー・バウアー) (@BauerOutage) March 14, 2021
Bauer has been outspoken of Manfred in the past, not just for his handling of the Houston Astros’ sign-stealing scandal, but other matters as well. During MLB’s shutdown last June, Bauer called out Manfred after he cast doubt on whether there would be a 2020 season.
Bauer, Dodgers invite fan to Spring Training
While Bauer has drawn the ire of MLB for his apparel choices, he’s partnering with the Dodgers to host a young fan at Spring Training after his mother shared word of multiple bullying incidents over the past year.
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