It was a matter of time before the Dodgers moved on from Trevor Bauer.
Although the Dodgers took their time to formally announce their decision, it seemed likely that he had thrown his last pitch for the organization. There were rumors that players on the team did not want him back. In the end, even with their quest to bring another championship to Los Angeles, it was felt that his talent was not worth the baggage.
Three places where former Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer could rebuild his career
That talent is going to be a siren call. As Bauer would only collect the league minimum from whatever team he signs with for 2022, with the Dodgers footing the bill for the rest, he is going to be tempting. But it is a matter of finding a team willing to take him on.
Where could former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer end up? Let’s take a look at three possible landing spots for 2023.
Tampa Bay Rays
The Rays have always been known to look for bargains. There may be no bigger one than Trevor Bauer.
As it stands, the Rays have a strong pitching staff. The trio of Shane McClanahan, Tyler Glasnow, and Zach Eflin are a great start to any rotation and the Rays have a knack for finding relievers. However, there are questions in the back of their rotation and every team can use more depth.
The Rays have also been willing to overlook possible behavioral issues and other red flags. The list of players that have come through the organization, and some of the issues that they have had, is fairly startling. While the Rays have moved away from that model in recent years, a bargain is still a bargain.
There may be no bigger bargain than Bauer. He is a valid top of the rotation starter and is going to have a chip on his shoulder as he looks to re-establish himself in the game. That combination could make him a compelling option, especially as the Rays look to go toe to toe with some of the most dangerous teams in the league.
The Tampa Bay Rays love bargains. There may be no bigger bargain than Trevor Bauer.