At the end of last week, the Los Angeles Dodgers made the decision to get rid of embattled right-hander Trevor Bauer.
Bauer is currently serving a suspension for sexual assault allegations, which has since been reduced, but is still the main reasons why the Dodgers designated him for assignment.
The St. Louis Cardinals have a glaring need for starting pitching with four of their starters not under contract past 2023.
This has led some St. Louis fans to speculate that Bauer could be a potential fit as they look to improve their pitching staff.
However, a Cardinals analyst quickly shut that down and also made clear his stance on Bauer.
I had no idea Trevor Bauer had so many defenders. It should not be an unpopular opinion to suggest he will not and should not be an option for the #STLCards.
— Brandon Kiley (@BKSportsTalk) January 11, 2023
While yes, Bauer would be a significant upgrade in St. Louis rotation, the Cardinals have always prided themselves on minimizing external distractions.
The veteran right-hander would certainly create some distractions for St. Louis.
The Dodgers placed him on paid administrative leave in 2021 after the allegations came to light.
He was suspended early in the 2022 season.
Again, St. Louis does need an upgrade in the starting rotation, but they might be best served diving back into the free agent market or seeking a trade.
The Miami Marlins may be shopping right-hander Pablo Lopez soon, a pitcher the Cardinals have previously had interest in.
Bauer’s current deal is also set to expire after the 2023 season, and St. Louis needs stability in their rotation for 2024 and beyond.
So in that case, Bauer is likely not an option for the Cardinals, despite his talents, and it is possible that Bauer’s career may be over.
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