In a world where loyalty often feels as rare as a knuckleball strikeout, a few still know when to pick a side. Amid the chaos of overseas baseball theatrics, Gary Sheffield Jr. stepped up — and not quietly. With the subtlety of a bat flip in the first inning, he threw his weight behind a certain exiled Dodgers ace, shaking the narrative in a way few dared.
Many MLB fans have not connected how the baseball world has treated Trevor Bauer, and one of those fans is Sheffield Jr. After Bauer’s last outing in the NPB, many were at his throat, calling him washed up and not even the best on his team. But now, when he actually had a strong outing, there is complete silence. And this has not sat well with Sheffield Jr.
In his recent tweet, Sheffield Jr. wrote, “Ton of media coverage for last week’s start from Trevor Bauer. Where was the coverage for last night’s outing, where he went 8 innings of one-run ball and 10 K’s?” That’s certainly a reasonable question. Given that last night’s performance is exactly what many MLB teams are looking for.
Ton of media coverage for last week’s start from Trevor Bauer. Where was the coverage for last night’s outing where he went 8 innings of one-run ball and 10 K’s?
Seems newsworthy if his bad outings happen to be “about baseball.”
— Gary Sheffield Jr. (@GarysheffieldJr) April 27, 2025
When the BayStars took on the Hiroshima Toyo Carp, Bauer was out to prove himself, and that is exactly what he did. Bauer pitched for eight innings, gave away two hits, and allowed only one run. And while doing so, he struck out 10 batters and walked three.
The teams in MLB have been suffering from pitchers’ injuries or poor performances. So the main question is: why have no MLB teams even looked at Bauer, even though he is pitching well? This season, Bauer has an ERA of 3.81 with 24 strikeouts in 26 innings.
If front offices in the league are truly hunting for arms, it’s baffling they’re ignoring one practically waving at them from across the Pacific. Bauer isn’t hiding — he’s dealing. Maybe the real injury crisis isn’t on the mound, but in the decision-making rooms. After all, it’s easier to feign selective amnesia than to admit the outcast still knows how to dominate.
Trevor Bauer’s return: A perfect fit for the Dodgers’ pitching staff
Although Bauer is exiled by controversy, his talent is utterly undeniable as he continues to dominate on the mound. So maybe it’s time for the Los Angeles Dodgers, in need of pitching depth, to ask the important question: Why not bring back the prodigal son? Sometimes, the best solutions come with a little bit of baggage — and a lot of strikeouts.
Bauer’s return to the Dodgers would bring a much-needed boost to their pitching depth. With the team battling injury concerns and inconsistencies in their rotation, Bauer’s presence could add stability. His past success in Los Angeles would make his reunion a seamless fit for the Dodgers’ championship aspirations. If he can replicate his previous form, his impact would likely outweigh any distractions.
His ability to perform in high-pressure moments would align well with the team’s postseason ambitions. And most importantly, Bauer’s competitive nature and experience could inject extra energy into a team already loaded with talent. While his off-field controversies remain a talking point, the Dodgers have historically been able to manage such dynamics.
As the Dodgers march toward another potential postseason, the question remains: Can a pitcher with Bauer’s skill be overlooked? His return might not just add depth but could provide the edge needed for a championship run. With a solid track record in L.A., Bauer could be the piece that turns a good team into a great one. After all, in baseball, winning cures all, including the baggage.
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