Major Update On The Status of Trevor Bauer

Los Angeles Dodgers ace Trevor Bauer missed the bulk of the 2021 season due to an investigation into alleged sexual assault, and being placed on administrative leave. It's now been learned that Bauer will not face criminal charges, following a decision just rendered by the Los Angeles County District Attorney. 

Trevor Bauer will not face any criminal charges in the LA court system, sources tell The Athletic. Bauer's active investigation by MLB remains open.

— Britt Ghiroli (@Britt_Ghiroli) February 8, 2022

According to TMZ, text messages between the accuser and Bauer seem to have had a hand in exonerating Bauer from the charges. The DA offered this explanation:

After a thorough review of the available evidence, including the civil restraining order proceedings, witness statements and the physical evidence, the People are unable to prove the relevant charges beyond a reasonable doubt.

Ken Rosenthal reports that MLB can still suspend Bauer, quoting the league's domestic violence policy. 

Yes, MLB still can suspend Bauer. From league’s joint domestic violence policy: “A player may be subjected to disciplinary action for just cause by the Commissioner for a violation of this policy in absence of a conviction or a plea of guilty to a crime…” https://t.co/1n4JxRbsAn

— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) February 8, 2022

“A player may be subjected to disciplinary action for just cause by the Commissioner for a violation of this policy in absence of a conviction or a plea of guilty to a crime…” Rosenthal cited. 

MLB's official response to the news today: 

MLB's investigation is ongoing and we will comment further at the appropriate time.

Bauer himself made a video statement today after the ruling came out. Titled "The Truth", watch it here. 

Bauer explains that he never committed any of the crimes or acts that he was accused of, and that everything was consensual between him and the accuser. He also says the media never had all of the facts, and that he's "grateful to the numerous teammates, players, coaches, fans, friends and even complete strangers who reached out to me and stood by me, even if it was in silence. Your support means more than you can know."

Bauer made just 17 starts for the Dodgers, and then spent the rest of the season on the restricted list. After the season, he exercised his $32M option for 2022. The team paid Bauer a lump sum of $20M on Nov. 30th, as stipulated in his contract. 

It remains to be seen what his status is for 2022, as his future rests in the hands of MLB from here on out. And of course, no suspensions or discipline of any kind are forthcoming as long as the lockout remains in effect. 

Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports