Trevor Bauer reacts to Dodgers’ decision

The Los Angeles Dodgers decided on Friday to part ways with Trevor Bauer, who was suspended from early July of 2021 (last pitching in late June) through late December of 2022 while an investigation around sexual assault allegations took place. Shortly after the Dodgers announced their decision, Bauer issued a statement.

In his statement, Bauer indicated that as recently as Thursday, he felt that he had a future with Los Angeles.

“While we were unable to communicate throughout the administrative leave and arbitration process, my representatives spoke to Dodgers leadership immediately following the arbitration decision.

Following two weeks of conversations around my return to the organization, I sat down with Dodgers leadership in Arizona yesterday who told me that they want me to return and pitch for the team this year.

While I am disappointed by the organization’s decision today, I appreciate the wealth of support I’ve received from the Dodgers clubhouse. I wish the players all the best and look forward to competing elsewhere.”

ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez detailed what’s next in the process for the Dodgers and Bauer.

“Bauer was designated for assignment, which means the Dodgers have until 2 p.m. ET on Thursday to find a trade partner,” Gonzalez said. “If they can’t, Bauer will be placed on unconditional release waivers. If he clears those, which is considered the likely scenario, he’ll become a free agent the following day.”

“They stretched their decision right up until Friday’s deadline, ultimately choosing a route that had long been expected,” added Gonzalez. “The Dodgers are on the hook for the $22.5 million Bauer is still owed for the final season of his contract but would save $720,000, the major league minimum, if another team signs him in the open market.”

Bauer will turn 32 in January and at the time of his suspension, was undeniably one of baseball’s best pitchers. From a financial and baseball perspective, he’s a low-risk option. From a public relations, standpoint, however, signing Bauer would be a massive risk for any team — much like Deshaun Watson has been for the Cleveland Browns in the NFL.

[Trevor Bauer on Twitter, Alden Gonzalez, ESPN]