Former Yankees pitcher David Wells and ex-teammate Mookie Betts are rallying behind Trevor Bauer, who, after a suspension and international tour, hopes for an MLB comeback on a minimum salary.

After a turbulent career plunge following multiple accusations of sexual assault, which led to a 194-game suspension and his release by the Dodgers, Trevor Bauer has been plying his trade in international leagues with remarkable success. Supported by notable figures like David Wells and Mookie Betts, Bauer—who boasts a 9-0 record with a 1.51 ERA in the Mexican League—is now seeking an MLB comeback, even willing to accept a minimum salary to prove his worth. Though he might need some PR coaching from Olivia Pope to make it happen, Bauer is determined to show he's a changed man.

For Trevor Bauer, the past few years have been a wild ride, but not the kind you'd enjoy at a theme park. Accusations of sexual assault not only marred his reputation but also resulted in a significant suspension from Major League Baseball (MLB). Initially looking at a hefty 324-game suspension for violating the league’s domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse policy, Bauer’s suspension was later reduced to 194 games. The drama reached its peak when the Dodgers decided to release him in January 2023.

Since then, Bauer's been earning his stripes in international leagues, and let's just say he's been pitching more than fits. Currently dazzling audiences with the Mexican League’s Diablos Rojos and Japan's Yokohama Bay Stars, Bauer boasts a sensational 9-0 record with a 1.51 ERA. Apparently, he's doing something right—at least in regions where the MLB’s commissioner isn’t looking over his shoulder.

We now have two prominent voices in his corner, urging the MLB to consider his return. Former Yankees pitcher David Wells came out swinging, stating that Bauer has atoned for his actions and deserves a second chance. Wells, possibly reminiscing about his own headlines, commented on how athletes often become 'targets' and emphasized the importance of making careful decisions. Meanwhile, another voice spoke more softly but carried considerable weight—Mookie Betts, Bauer's former teammate with the Dodgers, also expressed his support for Bauer’s MLB return.

Bauer is keen to rejoin the league, even willing to accept a minimum salary to prove himself. Evidently, Bauer's strategy is to bet big by going small. But if an MLB team does show interest, they might find they're not just getting a bargain—they're also acquiring a pitcher who has demonstrated impeccable form abroad. Bauer’s Mexican League stats alone could give some MLB pitchers a run for their money, or lack thereof in Bauer’s case.

Bauer has also reflected on his legal and personal challenges, noting his commitment to self-improvement and his hope to set an example of personal growth within MLB. Once the storm of allegations subsided without criminal charges, Bauer seemed to have taken a hard look in the mirror. Now, he’s not only polished his fastball but also his self-awareness, aiming to turn a sordid chapter into a story of redemption.

In a landscape where the court of public opinion can sometimes render harsher judgment than that of an actual courtroom, Bauer’s case serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change. And while some might still view his potential return with skepticism, others, especially David Wells and Mookie Betts, see it as an opportunity for the league to show that second chances aren't just tales told during spring training.

Though the MLB hasn’t budged just yet, Bauer's journey from suspension remains anything but conventional. In an era where sports figures regularly navigate the perilous waters of public opinion and past actions, his situation continues to be a topic of considerable debate. One might say it's like trying to pitch through a minefield—without a catcher's mitt.

Legal actions aren't off the table for Bauer either, should he remain unsigned. This potential move indicates that Bauer is not just passively waiting for a team to pick him like a lonely puppy at a pet adoption fair—he's prepared to fight for his career return. His willingness to take that route underscores his determination to wear an MLB jersey again, even if it’s potentially a litigious one.

As the baseball world keeps a watchful eye on Bauer’s next steps, one thing is for sure—his story is far from over. Whether we witness a triumphant return to MLB or an extended run in international leagues, Bauer continues to be a pitcher whose narrative keeps everyone tuned in. And if David Wells and Mookie Betts have their way, the next chapter might just bring Bauer back to the big leagues, proving that sometimes, a curveball can be just what the game needs.