Congressman Accuses MLB of Barring Trevor Bauer Over Trump Support

Congressman Eric Burlison has raised concerns that Major League Baseball (MLB) Commissioner Rob Manfred is preventing Trevor Bauer's return to the league due to Bauer's support for former President Donald Trump. Bauer, who was suspended for 324 games in 2021 over allegations of sexual assault, has maintained his innocence, with the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office declining to pursue charges due to insufficient evidence. His suspension was later reduced to 194 games, but he has not played in the MLB since, having instead played in Japan and Mexico. Burlison argues that Bauer's political views and criticism of MLB's policies may have contributed to his ongoing exclusion from the league. He highlighted the lack of legal action against Bauer and questioned whether MLB is effectively making his suspension a lifetime ban. The congressman's letter suggests that political bias may be influencing Bauer's situation, which he calls a significant issue within the league.