The former Cy Young Award winner aims for success with Diablos Rojos del Mexico
Category: Sports
Trevor Bauer, the controversial former Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher, has officially signed with the Diablos Rojos del Mexico in the Mexican League, marking his return to the league after a two-year hiatus. Bauer's move, reported by various outlets including the *New York Post*, comes as he seeks to rejuvenate his career following a series of off-field controversies that led to his release from MLB.
This decision is particularly notable as it follows Bauer's time with the Long Island Ducks in the American independent league, where he performed well before making his way back to Mexico. "I am back here to play again. I will do my best for a third consecutive championship in the league," Bauer stated through the Diablos Rojos del Mexico. He also expressed gratitude to the Ducks, wishing success to everyone associated with the team.
Bauer, 35, had a tumultuous career in MLB, highlighted by his 2020 National League Cy Young Award win. That season, he achieved a 1.73 earned run average (ERA) with five wins and four losses. His career, which began in 2011, includes a total of 222 games played, with a record of 83 wins and 69 losses and an ERA of 3.79. Unfortunately, his professional life took a downturn following allegations of sexual assault and racial insensitivity, leading to his eventual release from the Los Angeles Dodgers in January 2023.
Bauer's career has been marked by both high achievement and controversy. After signing a three-year, $102 million contract with the Dodgers in 2021, his career was derailed when he faced serious allegations of sexual assault. Though he was not charged due to insufficient evidence, the fallout from the allegations led to his suspension and subsequent release from the team.
In 2021, Bauer also faced backlash for an incident during spring training where he made a gesture that was perceived as racially insensitive after a strikeout against Ha-Seong Kim of the San Diego Padres. Bauer later explained that he was testing himself by throwing with his eyes closed, a justification that did not quell the controversy surrounding his actions.
After his release from MLB, Bauer signed with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Japan, where he managed to achieve a record of 10 wins and 4 losses with an ERA of 2.76. His performance there, coupled with his previous accolades, led to speculation about a possible return to the KBO League, particularly after he received offers from various teams in Korea and Taiwan. Instead, he chose to return to the Mexican League, where he previously played.
Bauer is now focused on making a successful comeback with the Diablos Rojos del Mexico, a team he previously pitched for in 2024, where he had an outstanding season, finishing with a perfect record of 10 wins and an ERA of 2.48. His return to the Mexican League has generated buzz, as he aims to contribute to the team's pursuit of a third consecutive championship.
Meanwhile, the KBO League is preparing for its upcoming draft, where another highly anticipated player, Kim Ji-woo, has made headlines. On June 22, 2026, Kim announced his decision to participate in the KBO rookie draft, choosing to remain in Korea rather than accepting a lucrative offer from the Toronto Blue Jays, which was valued at approximately $150,000 (23 million KRW).
Kim, a dual-threat player from Seoul High School, expressed his desire to prove himself in the KBO League and earn the respect of fans. His decision has created a 'draft big two' dynamic alongside fellow prospect Ha Hyun-seung, who also opted for a domestic career over MLB opportunities. The 2027 KBO rookie draft is scheduled for September, and the selection order will be determined based on the final standings of the 2025 season.
As Bauer embarks on this new chapter in Mexico, the KBO League looks forward to the exciting potential of its young talents, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.
Bauer's first game back with the Diablos Rojos del Mexico is highly anticipated among fans, as he aims to regain his form and reputation in professional baseball.