Fact Check: Did Trevor Bauer Really Say Dodgers Would Sign Him if He Was Japanese? Exploring Viral Tweet

In a sudden move that resonates through baseball history, the lifetime bans of former MLB legends like Pete Rose and the infamous 1919 “Black Sox” were lifted. This paved the way for their induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame. While this ban lift may have brought smiles to the faces of many who adored their favorite players, it has also sparked debates over gambling in sports. Now, former MLB pitcher Trevor Bauer, who was also part of the suspension due to domestic violence and sexual abuse issues, finally took to social media, expressing his disappointment and delivering a statement that soon became the talk of the town.

The former MLB pitcher, who once lit up the field, found himself entangled in an infamous scandal that involved sexual assault allegations against him in 2021. MLB was quick enough to put him on administrative leave, following which he was suspended for 324 games, which was later reduced to 194 games. However, it was a major setback in his career, as no teams bothered to sign him.

Now, after Pete Rose’s reinstatement, a viral post on X has quickly grabbed the attention of many. As per the post by FAX Sports, Trevor Bauer has still been taking shots at the MLB, saying, “If I were Japanese, LA would have signed me.” However, it undoubtedly calls into question the authenticity of the statement. Did Bauer really say anything like this?

Trevor Bauer is still taking shots at MLB after Pete Rose reinstatement pic.twitter.com/alakfdzZIv

— FAX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFAX) May 15, 2025

Well, Trevor Bauer did not say anything like this. First and foremost, the post is deemed false because it was created by a FOX Sports parody account. Bauer blamed MLB for his lack of a contract, not because any team thought he lacked the talent to compete on the big stage. He said, “Well, one team told us it’s not their decision; it’s an MLB decision. One team told me I was ‘too expensive’; even though I offered to play for minimum, another team told us they have covered some stuff up in the past that they don’t want the media digging into to find out about.”

The 34-year-old further questioned MLB: “So, since Pete is welcome back now, does that apply to everyone who has been blackballed? Or do you really have to be guilty of something to qualify for that?” Bauer was never charged with a crime, as the person who accused him sought a restraining order against him, which was later denied, though.

What lies ahead for Trevor Bauer?

The former National League Cy Young winner has not questioned the consistency in MLB’s approach towards player conduct and eligibility and how it may affect the entire career of a sportsperson. While the allegations against him were not related to any sort of gambling or doping scandal, they were equally distracting, which led to his suspension. And the ultimate outcome? Bauer hasn’t yet pitched a single time since 2021.

However, despite being rattled by the controversies, Trevor Bauer continued his career outside the major league. He made it to the All-Star team in Mexico in 2024 and also showcased his dedication towards the game after being released by the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, frustrated by the MLB’s move, he often stated that he was not signed by any teams not just because of his talent or pay; rather, the clubs were instructed not to sign him even after the clearance. Quite tragic for a player like him, isn’t it?

Well, what more can we say about it? However, according to a statement, Bauer has completed his suspension and is currently an unrestricted free agent who can sign a contract with any team. As for Bauer, he played for the Diablos Rojos del Mexico in 2024 and we all hope that he soon lands a contract in the major league too.

At this point, when a lot depends on the opinions of teams and fans, do you think Trevor Bauer can sign a contract?

 

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