Trevor Bauer faced a professional batter in the United States on Sunday afternoon for the first time in nearly three years. The opponents were members of his former team, the Los Angeles Dodgers.
In his first game in the U.S. since serving a record 194-day suspension for an MLB domestic violence violation, Bauer is based in Japan, where he plays exhibition games against minor leaguers to get the attention of scouts. He was a pitcher for the independent team Asian Breeze. and sexual assault policy.
Bauer was originally suspended for 324 games in April 2022, 10 months after being placed on leave due to sexual assault charges. His suspension was later reduced, but the Dodgers released him.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM
trevor bauer (Mark J. Revillas-USA TODAY Sports/File)
The 33-year-old right-hander dominated his minor league opponents as fans gathered to watch Bauer pitch, some wearing “Bring Back Bauer” T-shirts.
Bauer’s fastball reportedly reached 99 mph, and he later recorded four strikeouts against 12 batters. Of the batters Bauer faced, the Dodgers’ 40-man roster included outfielder Andy Pages and catchers Diego Cartaya and Hunter Feduccia.
At this time exactly three years ago, Bauer was ready to play against some of the best players in the game after signing a three-year, $102 million contract with the Dodgers.
Trevor Bauer advises aspiring athletes after resolving legal dispute
But now that he’s playing for his return to the league, there were reportedly no Dodgers or MLB scouts in the stands watching him pitch.
“If you think about it, there should be an opportunity to sign with a major league team,” Bauer said during a media scrum, according to ESPN. “I’m just asking for the league minimum, it’s not about money. I’ve been suspended more than once. I’m exempt from all legal issues. Think logically. Well, there’s no particular reason.” There’s no way they don’t have work.
“But I don’t. I mean, it’s what it is. We’ll see how it plays out. I don’t want to predict the future. We’ll see. .”
After being released by the Dodgers, Bauer went to Japan as a pitcher for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars. He appeared in 24 games at two different levels with the BayStars, posting an impressive 2.59 ERA in 156.2 innings. Bauer struck out 160 batters and gave up only 34 walks.
Trevor Bauer of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches against the Giants at Oracle Park in San Francisco on May 21, 2021. (Brian Rothmuller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
“If I just stay prepared, maybe somehow people will remember that I’m still one of the best pitchers in the world,” Bauer said, according to USA Today.
Bauer was originally scheduled to pitch Saturday at the Arizona Diamondbacks’ Asian Breeze complex, but his starting pitcher was changed.
ESPN has learned that a source close to Bauer said the team does not allow him to play on the Dodgers’ field.
When asked how it felt to play against a Dodgers team, Bauer replied, “Honestly, I don’t really care who we play.” “I just like to pitch. I hope they enjoy it and have a good time. I tried to enjoy it and have a good time and try to entertain the fans.” I worked hard. That’s what I always try to do. Whether it’s the Dodgers or any other team, it doesn’t really matter, I just enjoy pitching.”
Bauer said he has become a better pitcher since playing in Japan. He returned to America equipped with a splitter and heater in his pitcher’s arsenal, increasing his speed overseas.
“I hope today reminds me that I’m still an elite pitcher, and if I’m not, so be it,” he said.
Trevor Bauer of the Los Angeles Dodgers warms up before a game against the Colorado Rockies on April 13, 2021 at Dodger Stadium. (Harry Howe/Getty Images)
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Bauer last took an MLB mound during the Dodgers’ 2021 season, where he posted a 2.59 ERA and 137 strikeouts in 17 starts (107.2 innings).
Follow Fox News Digital X sports broadcastplease subscribe Fox News Sports Huddle Newsletter.
