Trevor Bauer joins Long Island Ducks, aims for MLB return April 21

Trevor Bauer, a former Cy Young winner, will pitch for the Long Island Ducks on April 21. This is his first U.S. professional baseball since 2021.
By Newsroom | Sports, Baseball |

Former Cy Young winner Trevor Bauer has signed with the Long Island Ducks, an independent club in the Atlantic League, marking his return to professional baseball in the United States. He is slated to pitch opening night on April 21 for the Ducks, his 15th professional season. Bauer's signing comes after stints pitching in Japan and Mexico.

Bauer’s prior career in Major League Baseball was interrupted by a 194-game suspension for violating MLB's domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy. Civil claims against him related to these allegations were settled; he was not criminally charged. Bauer, a one-time top draft pick, pitched for the Diamondbacks, Indians, Reds, and Dodgers over a decade in the majors, accumulating 83 wins.

The Atlantic League is presented as a 'professional partner league' and a 'player gateway to the major leagues.' The Long Island Ducks, in their 26th season, claim to be the league's all-time leader in wins and attendance, having sold out a record 721 games.

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Bauer is expected to use this opportunity to showcase his skills to Major League Baseball clubs, with the team stating his "talent and knowledge will be important additions" and offering him a chance to "showcase his talents to MLB clubs." He also plans to wear a microphone during games and practices to create content for himself and the team.

Bauer himself expressed eagerness to compete in front of U.S. fans again, stating he is "excited to be part of that tradition" of players who have come through the Ducks' organization. He previously played for Yokohama in Japan, where he posted a 4-10 record with a 4.41 ERA last year, and also played in Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Trevor Bauer sign with the Long Island Ducks?
Trevor Bauer signed with the Long Island Ducks, an independent baseball team, to return to professional baseball in the United States. He hopes to show Major League Baseball teams he can still play at a high level.
Q: When will Trevor Bauer pitch his first game for the Long Island Ducks?
Trevor Bauer is scheduled to pitch on opening night, April 21, for the Long Island Ducks. This will be his first professional game in the U.S. since 2021.
Q: What is the Long Island Ducks' connection to Major League Baseball?
The Long Island Ducks play in the Atlantic League, which is a partner league to Major League Baseball. The league is seen as a place where players can prove themselves to MLB teams.
Q: What happened in Trevor Bauer's past MLB career?
Trevor Bauer won a Cy Young award and had 83 wins in MLB. His career was interrupted by a suspension for violating domestic violence policies. He has since pitched in Japan and Mexico.
Q: Will Trevor Bauer create content while playing for the Ducks?
Yes, Trevor Bauer plans to wear a microphone during games and practices. He will use this to create content for himself and the Long Island Ducks team.