Trevor Bauer of the Los Angeles Dodgers has been suspended by Major League Baseball for two seasons, effective immediately, for violating the league’s domestic violence and sexual assault policy.
The suspension — which will cover 324 games without pay — was announced by Commissioner Rob Manfred on Friday. It came after an investigation by the league into allegations that he had assaulted a woman. Bauer, who joined the Dodgers last season as a free agent, was placed on administrative leave, with pay, on July 2. A second assault allegation was reported by the Washington Post.
Bauer, who has been vocal in his own defense throughout the process, and has filed multiple lawsuits against various people including media members, issued a statement on Friday condemning the decision.
“In the strongest possible terms, I deny committing any violation of the league’s domestic violence and sexual assault policy,” Bauer’s statement said. “I am appealing this action and expect to prevail. As we have throughout this process, my representatives and I respect the confidentiality of the proceedings.”
Bauer is the 15th player to be suspended as part of the league’s policy on domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse.