Trevor Bauer Signs with Long Island Ducks

Former MLB pitcher returns to baseball after suspension over assault allegations

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:19am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the motion of a baseball pitcher, with sharp planes of color representing the complex personal and professional challenges Bauer faces in his comeback attempt.The complex legal and ethical issues surrounding Trevor Bauer's return to professional baseball are deconstructed through a Cubist lens.NYC Today

Trevor Bauer, who has not pitched in Major League Baseball since serving a 194-game suspension related to sexual assault allegations, has signed with the Long Island Ducks of the independent Atlantic League. The 35-year-old pitcher is set to make his return to professional baseball with the Ducks.

Why it matters

Bauer's signing with the Ducks marks his first return to professional baseball since his high-profile suspension from MLB in 2022. The allegations against Bauer and his subsequent punishment sparked widespread debate around player conduct policies in professional sports.

The details

Bauer, a former Cy Young Award winner, has not pitched in the majors since June 2021 after being placed on administrative leave following sexual assault allegations made against him. In August 2022, Bauer was suspended for 194 games by MLB, one of the longest non-lifetime suspensions in league history. He will now attempt to work his way back to the majors by playing for the independent Long Island Ducks.

  • Bauer was placed on administrative leave by MLB in June 2021.
  • In August 2022, Bauer was suspended for 194 games by MLB.
  • Bauer has signed with the Long Island Ducks in April 2026.

The players

Trevor Bauer

A 35-year-old former MLB pitcher who won the Cy Young Award in 2020 but has not played in the majors since June 2021 due to sexual assault allegations and a subsequent 194-game suspension.

Long Island Ducks

An independent professional baseball team that plays in the Atlantic League, where Bauer has signed to attempt a comeback to the majors.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're excited to give Trevor the opportunity to return to professional baseball and continue his career.”

— Ducks General Manager

What’s next

Bauer is expected to make his debut with the Ducks in the coming weeks as he works to regain his form and potentially earn another shot in the majors.

The takeaway

Bauer's signing with the Ducks represents a controversial but potentially redemptive path back to the big leagues, as he looks to move past the sexual assault allegations that derailed his MLB career.