DFA'd Trevor Bauer Says Dodgers Leadership Wanted Him Back

Although the Los Angeles Dodgers have done the expected and DFA'd embattled pitcher Trevor Bauer, the player has released a statement implying that he's surprised by the decision, and says that "Dodgers leadership" told him yesterday that they wanted him back this season.

Bauer statement pic.twitter.com/BcwKsa3ANj

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 7, 2023

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 wanted 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. 

                                                                                                    —Trevor Bauer

Nobody's quite sure who the "Dodgers leadership" is that told him they wanted him back, but the official word from the team is that they, in fact, want nothing to do with him. 

BREAKING: Dodgers say Trevor Bauer "will no longer be part of our organization."

— Bill Shaikin (@BillShaikin) January 7, 2023

The Dodgers will end up eating the $22.5M they still owe him, as the chances of them finding a trade partner in the next week are extremely slim. They have seven days to either trade him or place him on irrevocable outright waivers. 

Following that, Bauer can sign with any major league team for the $720,000 minimum.

The 32-year-old has just served the longest suspension in the seven-year history of MLB’s policy on domestic violence and sexual assault—194 games. 

Photo: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports