Pujols on Bauer’s Path Back to MLB

Albert Pujols believes there’s a specific road Trevor Bauer must take to get back into Major League Baseball. Currently pitching for the Long Island Ducks in the Atlantic League, Bauer, who has been vocal about his experiences, is advised by Pujols to mend his relationship with MLB first.

“Before he can step back into the league, he needs to sort out his issues with MLB,” Pujols stated. “One thing with Trevor is that, really, he has opposed MLB. You can’t go against the system that supports you,” he conveyed.

Pujols expressed confidence that if Bauer does make amends, teams would readily consider him. “If he can achieve that, I think teams should definitely take a chance on him,” he added.

Bauer has been away from Major League play since June 28, 2021, after being placed on administrative leave due to allegations of sexual assault. His suspension was initially set for a historic 324 games but was later reduced to 194 following an appeal.

Despite the serious allegations, which saw no criminal charges brought against him, Bauer maintains he is innocent and claims that his encounters were consensual.

Now, after joining the Ducks, Bauer reiterated his belief that he has been unfairly treated by MLB. “Even if I had a perfect ERA, nothing would change,” he remarked. “Deep down, I know this is what it is. I’ve been blackballed. I offered to repay my entire salary just to play without getting paid.”

Pujols, who briefly played with Bauer on the Dodgers, stressed that the pitcher’s skill is not what has kept him out of the league. “Who wouldn’t want Trevor on their roster? He’s a solid player,” he noted. “But he’s got to fix things with MLB first.”

Over the last few seasons, Bauer has played internationally, including stints in Japan and Mexico, with varying degrees of success.

In 2023, he played for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Japan and was recognized as the Pitcher of the Year in the Mexican Baseball League in 2024. Last season in Japan, he recorded the highest ERA among starting pitchers.

During two games with the Ducks, Bauer showcased his skills, striking out eight batters in four innings and even throwing a no-hitter in his latest performance.

Afterward, he addressed critics who doubt his physical capabilities. “I just want to connect with American fans and enjoy baseball in my own country after being sidelined for years for no reason,” he stated. “I have a loyal fan base, yet at the MLB level, there’s this perception that I’m disliked. It’s tough to feel like an outsider.”