The most disturbing news this week has been the Trevor Bauer story. Myself, I reserve judgement on guilt or innocence until all of the facts are in, and are presented. But it brings to the forefront once again that pro athletes are nothing more than talented human beings with the same failings we all have. Some take their celebrity and do wonderful things.
Others shy away from the spotlight and are always in the background. Some bask in the glow of public adulation and proclaim their greatness to anyone who will listen. And in today’s society with all the mass media coverage, everyone with a camera on their phone, this can be very dangerous. And make no mistake, there is no such thing as totally secure email. Everything that is typed on your computer or phone can come back and bite you in an instant. So, exercising good judgment and not putting yourself in the public eye is the prudent and smart thing to do.
Unfortunately over the years, many athletes in all sports take the opposite tack. From OJ to Aaron Hernandez, and oh so many others, they do all sorts of things that make you think, what the hell was this guy thinking? Only the athlete himself can answer that question truthfully, and they rarely do. This is at least the third time in the last several years that this kind of story has impacted the Dodgers. Manny taking PED’s, the Urias incident, and now Bauer.
But they are far from the only ones who have been accused or otherwise. PED’s were a huge story and many great players’ legacies were tarnished, and some have never regained the sheen they had before. Some have not made it to the HOF, even though their career stats merit election. And in the eyes of this writer, it casts some doubt on the credibility of the league itself, who for many years ignored the problem until it could no longer do so.
For me, I think that came to a head when Ken Caminiti died because of steroid abuse. All of a sudden the powers that be stood up and made a stand, albeit a weak one against steroid use. And it would be years before a real policy against PED’s would be implemented.
Physical abuse and assault are a totally different animal. The league’s handling of these kinds of cases has changed a lot. It used to be that they would defer to local authorities and wait for investigations to be concluded and charges either brought or dropped. Not so anymore. They conduct their own investigations at the same time as the authorities and in some cases hand down some sort of suspension to the player, as they did with Urias.
We all remember the Chapman mess in Cincinnati which kept LA from dealing for him after a trade had been agreed upon. In 2001, Rockies pitcher Bobby Chouinard was accused of holding a gun to his wife’s head and making her beg for her life. He served 4 months for that and was released by the Rockies.
When Bud Selig was the commissioner, he was known to let the authorities take the lead and issue punishment. MLB’s policy has changed quite a bit. Bauer is not the only one under scrutiny at this time, Ozuna of the Braves also has some serious problems. Pro sports as a whole have a major problem on their hands. MLB has a worse track record in these cases than the NFL at this point.
We have had pro athletes commit murder, rape, and all sorts of other crimes, and sometimes it seems like an epidemic. And it is not confined to the US. Pro’s in other countries have done some pretty awful acts. We raise these people up to heights they never knew before, and some at a very young age. How they handle it is on them. But the pressure to perform at a high level just overcomes some of them and they do things most would never do. What you do in your everyday life is out there for all to see anymore. Privacy? Ha, fat chance of that happening. What goes on behind closed doors might end up on YouTube.
The Dodgers are visiting the White House today. Since he was not a member of the Dodgers when they won the series, I do not believe Bauer will be making the visit with them.
That is correct; only members of the 2020 team.
Thought the wording from Luba’s tweet is interesting. But like she says hopefully the truth comes out.
Next stop: first place.
Thanks for posting what REALLY COUNTS!
Good points Bear! I like that Rachel Luba tweet. It’s funny how people’s opinions are formed. Going back to the Chapman situation, most people think that the Dodgers backed out of the deal because of some ethical reasons like the Dodgers were above having such a person on the team. It could have just as easily been that the Dodgers backed out of the trade due to the uncertainty of not knowing what Chapman’s suspension would look like and how much time he would miss as a result. Nobody knows all the details. People like Molly Knight, Dustin Nosler, Pedro Moura get on their high horse and make outrageous demands like the Dodgers need to cut ties with Bauer because some things are bigger than baseball not knowing if this was a setup and acting like they are the arbiter of truth, ethics and standards in the world.
This is a big reason why many of us just want our favorite sports sites stick to sports. It’s apparently really hard to do this. Everyone on the Internet has a voice and we sure like to hear ourselves use it. Present company included.
Anyways, good game and great luck last night. Saving the pen, Giants and Padres losses. Pollock and Muncy’s homers were huge, but I really liked it when Albert extended the inning by hitting that hard grounder through the right side. He looked so balanced on that swing even though he had to reach for it.
It sure looks like Lux will have to earn any playing time against lefty starters as the Dodgers have already begun phasing him out against lefties. No need to wait until Seager returns to begin that process.
With Lux, I see that the talent is there, but he’s got a little bit of the Kike disease. He’s just trying too hard to do to much. He’s not letting the game come to him. He’ll eventually learn, unlike Kike.
It’s interesting how Mookie gets a pass from criticism by the fans. Everyone seems to be bending over backwards to make excuses for the guy. He needs to step up his game big time. I can’t believe they haven’t moved him out of the leadoff spot except there doesn’t seem to be any better choices. But, sometimes you need to send a message regardless.
It’s time to move on from Barnes. I really hope they find a way to trade him at the deadline and I think the writing is on the wall as he is no longer Kershaw’s personal catcher. He’s solid enough where other teams might want him and it doesn’t make any sense to have K-Bear waiting in AAA any longer. But, if you need a stud pitcher, as many suggest, Barnes ain’t gonna get it done. K-Bear will. One of them will be changing teams before the end of July.
The bullpen is great. Yeah, I said it. GREAT! This is a GREAT bullpen. Wow, that feels so good to say. As of right now, our pen is Jansen, Treinen, Nelson, Kelly, Bickford, Price, Cleavinger and V-Gone. That’s good enough to get the job done and then some. Alexander, Vesia, Graterol, Knebel are all expected back at some point. But wait, there’s more. White, Uceta, Gray and new guy Wahl all might provide further value. That’s two freaking bullpens!
Tonight, or this afternoon we’ll see Urias take on future Dodgers Max Sherzer.
Somehow the Giants improved their record against >500 teams while losing to the D-Backs. What a stupid stat. Two days ago they were 16-16 and all of the sudden they’re 22-17 all because the Reds reached the 500 mark.
Thanks, I appreciate it. Yeah, I think most of the time we only get part of the story. I just remembered that the deal was all but done and then it was not. I will say this, if this stuff is true, Bauer’s days as a Dodger are numbered. A thing like this can be used to void his contract. The guy is both entertaining and frustrating to watch at the same time.
My reaction to the Athletic. Duke lacrosse team.
Agree 100%. And what I find interesting is all the people condemning the behavior EVEN IF it was 100% consensual. Not knowing about it myself I did some quick research. Millions upon Millions of Americans engage in this type of “behavior”. Kind of floored me. And tens of Millions if you count the “softer side” in the “50 Shades” category. Apparently it has exploded ( pun might be intended ) over the last decade or so. So many that it makes me pause and think that at least SOME of these critics do not use the same ruler on themselves.
Last night was AWESOME. Going into another teams house, and spanking them in 5 and then back to hotel for a nice longer than expected rest. Good stuff.
Cheers
I find it ironic that you stated “Not knowing about it myself” then chose to use the word “Spanking” to describe the Dodger’s handling of their competition. Pun intended?
I guess you can say that the Dodger’s Bauered the Nats by spanking them and then having a nice long rest in the hotel room. Too soon?
I guess the irony is lost on me. It was a different paragraph & I was on another thought thread & that did not at all occur to me. Pretty much what I would say regardless of the opening paragraph.
One other thought I had on the subject is “doesn’t he have any kind of security cams or anything?”
One of the questions is “consensual”. Consent can be given and the taken away. Whether this was the case we have no idea. I also have no idea how one proves consent given/consent taken back.
It just doesn’t stop with the Dodgers this year. Many injuries that have allowed players to be called up that weren’t ready for the show. Now, as we have our star players returning from injury this Trevor Bauer situation brings uncertainty possibly to the rest of the season.
I have read some reactions from Nosler and others. They were against the signing of Bauer from the beginning so the accusations against Bauer feed into their narrative. The restraining order describes what the victim says happened to her. And its horrific. But, is it accurate? We don’t know right now. Only Bauer and the victim know. Both parties seem to have some “different and unusual” likes in the bedroom. That’s their business. But, if Bauer did some of the abusive actions he’s accused of then he’s got real trouble ahead. Bauer is an unusual dude which we knew when he was signed. But, these accusations, if true, are way beyond what we thought he was. We’ll have to wait to see what the facts reveal.
As far as how the Dodgers are handling this situation I’d give them a D. They send out Roberts to explain why Bauer is still active and will pitch Sunday. First, when Roberts speaks about important issues he addresses with the media I can see with his body language and verbal awkwardness that he spewing bullshit. To say the Bauer situation is out of their hands is, of course, BS. Stan Kastan or AF should have met with the media. The front office is responsible for Bauer being on the team so the front office should defend their position of keeping Bauer active. This isn’t an on the field baseball team issue that Roberts should address. It’s an off the field issue the front office needs to handle. Either baseball and/or the Dodgers should have suspended Bauer with pay until this situation is resolved. I know it sucks for the Dodgers, but they knew this could be a possibility when they signed him. This is what the NFL does and I believe the NBA as well so it’s not an unusual approach.
Whatever happens it’s not going to be a positive result. Bauer’s character will be tarnished for years and the Dodgers have to deal with the consequences. My feeling is that the Dodgers will try to rid themselves of Bauer regardless of what he might be guilty or not guilty of. And, as soon as possible. It’s a sad deal.
Anybody remember the accusations, about Kobe Bryant ?
yep. It was a huge black mark against Kobe at the time. But, he wanted to “be like Mike” and Shaq. Fortunately for him it was then and not now.
Good point. There wasn’t the social media activity back then
As a 78 year old who has been happily married for 57 years, I had no idea what BDSM meant. I googled and found this: https://www.verywellmind.com/the-health-benefits-of-bdsm-2979720. I don’t understand, condone, or practice any of what I read, but see there are many who do. Bauer must be one of them. This could come back to “bite him”. Pun intended!
Thanks. That was pretty much my point above. I looked into something I do not have personal knowledge of & was fairly surprised by what I read. Even something about people who practice that nonsense being “better rounded, more satisfied with life” bullspit.
Very strange indeed. But then I am just a pup of 62.
Cheers
“Bite him” is an apt pun…. Kudos for that.
As for consensual, “When I got pissed and said ‘bite me,” I didn’t mean it literally!”
All joking aside, as we wait for all this to sort itself out, the worst-case scenario for the Dodgers is that Bauer’s season is over.
So should AF be searching for another starter? They could and should win without Bauer–but winning the WS would be that much tougher.
There’s a chance that Dodgers helped themselves today by crushing the Nats after the Max Scherzer schooled them through six innings. If the Nats slide, Scherzer might be on the market. He’s still pitching great, and the Padres and/or Giants would probably join the bidding. Anyway, he’d be No. 1 on my shopping list.
The Rangers Kyle Gibson, who is leading the AL in ERA, should be on the market, and a few other good ones.
But Scherzer… that would be kinda wow.
Anyway, I prefer to speculate over midseason trades than criminal allegations.
I give Doc a D on how he handled the questions looking like a deer in the headlights and deferring accountability to MLB’s office regarding Bauer’s scheduled start. I give the ownership group an A by not having a press conference and adding more fuel to the fire. Keep their mouths shut until the investigation is over.
I remember when Urias had his incident and fans were calling on the Dodgers to cut bait on Urias. How did that work out? Do you remember how much love he got from everyone after closing out the World Series?
I guess people forget that one of our owners got AIDS from humping too much. People still love Magic Johnson which is a pretty ironic nickname considering the circumstances surrounding his johnson.
Wilt Chamberlain famously holds the world record for most “sexual encounters” by an athlete. I don’t see a lot of hate going his way for missogyny.
Bruce Jenner isn’t even a man anymore.
Our gay couple owners were propped up during Pride Month to talk about sexual preference and in case you aren’t paying attention Pride isn’t just about being gay, but encompasses an entire spectrum of sexual behavior which might just well include the kind of stuff that Bauer and his friend are into and the Dodgers organization promoted the hell out of it.
It’s going to be pretty tough to prove wrong doing when she came back for a second helping, spent the night twice, thanked him the following day, and no witnesses.
I think you are spot on, and in fact I did read an article saying it was much more prevalent in the lgbtqwhatever world.
Cheers
Concerning Bruce Jenner: Check HIS DNA! HE may think he’s a woman. He may cut off his male genitalia, take female hormones, but the DNA doesn’t change.
Not all that cut-and-dry: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/sex-redefined-the-idea-of-2-sexes-is-overly-simplistic1/
Ted has an excellent point about who the spokesperson for the club should be in situations like this. They just threw Doc to the wolves where it was definitely Friedman or Kasten’s job to put themselves in front of the media, no matter how unpleasant that might have been.
Three points about the Bauer mess stand out to me:
1) What two consenting adults do behind closed doors is up to them
2) Consent can be withdrawn and when it is, everything stops
3) And this is the defining point to me: When you perform acts on an UNCONSCIOUS person, you have crossed way over the line. Game Over.
At this point, I have no idea if what the woman said was true, but if it is proven she was unconscious through part of it, that’s enough for me to say Bauer needs to pay a hefty price, and probably will. If Bauer is found to have done what he is accused of, it will certainly end his career and will cost him about 80 million dollars in round numbers.
I love sex as much as the next guy, but I would never pay 80 mil for it.
Great points.
Yep, definitely not Doc’s job to discuss this mess. It’s not his department.
So I thought he did OK. Not a single manager would handle it well–and many would botch it. Has Dodger brass been ducking this responsibility? At the very least they should have legal counsel out front for such questions.
Speaking of scandals…. Bear would know this: Didn’t Durocher wind up losing his job as manager because he was shacking up with some fabulous Hollywood babe who was not his wife? As I recall it, Walter O’Malley was not pleased with the gossip on what passed for TMZ back then. Something like that….
They don’t make scandals like they used to.
We have heard one side of the story.
It may be 100% true, but it could also be 100% false. It could be partially true or practically false.
Typically, a person in Bauer’s position should wait and defend themselves in a court of law.
There are good cops who will do their jobs objectively and there are cops who are biased against guys like Bauer and cops who are biased against women. The same is true with prosecutors. What happens next is that when the Police Detectives have reviewed the evidence and taken all the statements, it will be sent to the Prosecutor who reviews it and decides to bring charges or not.
Bauer may or may not have engaged in what the alleged victim says. He is wise not to say anything right now, BUT while a person has a presumption of innocence, unless Bauer wants to jeopardize his case and release facts related to the case that refute the alleged victims’ claims, I do not see how MLB can allow him to pitch. If he is smart, he will ask to be put on the restricted list BEFORE MLB acts. It could be cleared up in less than 30 days or it could linger on for a long time. The Dodgers cannot allow that.
I have no opinion regarding his guilt or innocence and I will not conclude anything based upon the woman’s claims. Women lie about this kind of stuff. They also tell the truth. The same is true with men. If what she says is true, he deserves to go to jail. If what she says is not true, she should go to jail, but it never happens like that.
Well… clearly we have heard from both sides.
Bauer’s representatives have responded to the accusation, so we are in the classic “she said/he said” mode.
The accuse says he did it, the accused says he didn’t. Seems black and white, but not necessarily– there could be significant gray here too.
There is a legal risk in filing false police reports. But it’s less of risk for the accuser if detectives determine the claims are partially true and the accused shares culpability. Plus, there are civil remedies. Libel, slander and defamation can be grounds for massive lawsuits–just ask those who falsely accused Dominion of rigging the election. (The interaction of civil and criminal cases are key to both why Bill Cosby got convicted and now he is walking free.)
Speaking of elections, Muncy wuz robbed!
Anyway, we’ve all been in she said/he said situations, but typically in matters less troubling.
Mark, there is a link on PBS of the Dodgers at the White House for everyone to view. I can’t seem to get it to post on the site. Need your help..
Thank you Mark.
My prediction: Bauer’s lawyers are now working out a quiet deal with his accuser to make this go away. He gets paid 40 million per year. He will pay to make it go away.
Yep. She goes away with millions and he goes away with a destroyed reputation.
Trevor Bauer was just placed on Paid Administrative Leave by MLB.
The toothpaste is out of the tube on Bauer. This type of behavior makes me angry for a multitude or reasons!! Each year the Dodgers should hold a “How not to be a Dumbass 101”. (Mandatory attendance!) Beating up your girlfriend? No bueno. Choking out a booty call? Just say no! There are a bunch of Dodger Blue Moms and Daughters in my house. They poo poo’d Julio for his aggressive girlfriend behavior (I still haven’t fixed that). Bauer is beyond hope! Even if he does a deal, or wiggles off via the consensual angle he is still dead meat with most of the female Dodger fans. Let’s get that don’t be a dumbass 101 class going and use the Kobe story, Juluo example and Bauer bust to illustrate what not to do with the little captain …..
I have no idea how this plays out but it all seems shitty!
Bauer WILL NOT pitch Sunday. Just in ……. will ber AT LEAST 7 days
https://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/mlb/2021/07/02/trevor-bauer-dodgers-assault-allegations-mlb-leave/7840999002/
Will the Dodgers be able to add a player to the 40 man and 26 man rosters while Bauer is under suspension?
Just found the answer:
Can confirm that Brusdar Graterol will be taking Trevor Bauer’s spot on the active roster. Graterol was already in D.C. for the White House visit this morning.
@jorgecastillo
was on it.
Let’s go, Graterol.
Next man up.
Yep, be nice to see if he has “fixed” some stuff.
Looks like the restraining order court appearance won’t be until July 27th so I doubt Bauer pitches in July unless the victim recants her story. If there is no resolution between Bauer and the woman by the end of July I would guess that Bauer is done for the season with the Dodgers. If that is the case then the offseason should be interesting. Support from his teammates has to be poor at best right now. How could he expect to be part of the team with those kind of allegations hanging over his head. If Bauer didn’t have the social media history he does it would be one thing (clean image). But, because he shown to be kind of different in his personal life this situation puts him in the corner of doubt for sure. Being a Cy Young winning pitcher and a suburb student of the art of pitching does no good in cases like this.
Or if the DA comes back b4 then and says they are not filing charges.
MLB can only keep Bauer on admin leave for a week. Any longer has to be taken up with the union.
I was wrong about Sunday’s start but the internet masses demanded it.
On the baseball front, does anybody think we have enough starting pitching now? This rotation should have been dealt with before now. Although AF could not have seen this coming we were treading in a very risky fashion. We don’t have a fifth starter now we don’t have our best innings eater. Any trade the price will go up as they c the mess we are in.
Totally agree. We needed an innings eater before today and even more now.
Between having no Bauer and Gonsolin having a hard time going more than three innings, that puts a ridiculous strain on the bullpen and it will only get worse as we pile up bullpen games.
Happy to see Graterol get another chance but I think I would have brought up Pepiot, even though that would have involved creating a 40-man spot for him. He seems the most ready of all of our minor league pitchers to be able to go deep into a game. I would have given him a couple of starts to see if that’s true.
As far as the rotation they have got to try to build up price. I don’t know why they haven’t. Mb he just can’t do it. He looks like he is 80 out there so mb they just didn’t want to say he can’t. I don’t think we would miss him in the bullpen.
If they were going to stretch Price and make him a starter I think they would have done it by now. I don’t expect to see that happen.
Another possibility would have been Nelson, but he’s been used very sparingly lately, even in relief. Last time out was a week ago and he only pitched a third of an inning. I wonder if something is going on with him physically or spin wise?
Doc really debased himself yesterday by doing Friedman’s dirty work. I mean how demeaning to get put out there like that, and say with a straight face,”it’s out of our hands, he’s going to pitch Sunday”. Nope, it’s not on us to make a decision! He really looked weak, just a water carrying lackey. I actually feel sorry for him. How hard would it be to just say, “these are very serious allegations , and until these allegations have been thoroughly investigated , he will not play in a Dodger uniform. That is the decision of the Dodger Organization”. And yes I do think it was a setup and multimillion dollar shakedown.
Doc does this all the time with medical reports. He has no business trying to predict what will happen with an injury. He starts all his spinning and never knows what he is talking about. That is why I can’t stand to listen to him.
And he knew damn well there was no way in hell by Bauer was pitching Sunday . Yet he said it anyway because that’s what he was told to say. Or I should say, That’s what he was PAID to say.
Wrong!
Mark I admire your loyalty. But I respectfully disagree. And I maintain my cynicism.
I am not loyal to Roberts in this case.
I am just stating FACT, and all Roberts was doing is parroting what MLB told the Dodgers yesterday.
You don’t have to like him… I don’t care, but the fact is yesterday, MLB was going to let Bauer start on Sunday. I was fine with that at the time. Then more stuff came out last night and this morning and I wrote: “Bauer may or may not have engaged in what the alleged victim says. He is wise not to say anything right now, BUT while a person has a presumption of innocence, unless Bauer wants to jeopardize his case and release facts related to the case that refute the alleged victims’ claims, I do not see how MLB can allow him to pitch. If he is smart, he will ask to be put on the restricted list BEFORE MLB acts. It could be cleared up in less than 30 days or it could linger on for a long time. The Dodgers cannot allow that.”
Things changed.
Great post Bear. Very well thought out and excellently expressed.
I’m still reserving judgement on TB’s guilt Aside from the damage to the individuals directly, this is another “distraction” nobody needed; not the Dodger organization, not the team, not the fan base, not Manfred and MLB, not the Player’s Union., Nobody but the lawyers. Shit happens but this one seems so obviously avoidable in the rear view mirror.
Your statement “But it brings to the forefront once again that pro athletes are nothing more than talented human beings with the same failings we all have egos” Nothing has ever been more true. I experienced it first hand at a young age. The image makers and media can paint a completely different picture of an athlete than what’s reality. One thing I noticed early on, was how much ego plays a role in many very successful athletes. That’s likely what motivated them to greatness. And I’m not talking about a strong ego;. I’m talking about an ego most normal, every day people have ever encounter. Most never see egos to that extent in an every day workplace
I knew some baseball players who were so self absorbed, selfish and entitled, nobody else really mattered. But it exists in every sport. The King that I saw up close was Adrian Dantley in the NBA. I great player and a total ass. He thought only of himself and everyone else had to kiss his ass. The coaches and players hated him but you never read that i the paper.
Another great story about self absorption is by an old golfer who’s name escapes me, while playing with Ben Hogan. The player made a hole in one on a par three and had the crowd excited. On the next tee, Hogan never said a word to the other gofer; not nice shot, not congratulations. All Hogan said to the guys was “can you believe I missed that putt?”
I still find it distressing and sad that DADS aren’t better role models for their kids in many cases. They’ve handed that job off to the pro players they watch. Be like Mike.
Great post Bear and keep up the great work. I certainly appreciate it.
By all accounts I have read, his dad is a stand up guy & they are very close. I mean, what are you going to say to your kid? “Hey it’s all good, just don’t get into any kinky sex crap”? And Bauer literally hit “manhood” right about the 50 Shades era. None are excuses, just observations. Most of my doubts are the immediate start for her side to start trying this in the court of public opinion. Just makes it smell like a money grab. And I grant, I could be wrong, but that is how it smells to me.
Cheers
Thanks Phil, I am doing my best to keep it interesting. This one kind of fell into my lap.
Resetting the rotation:
1. Kershaw’s our ace. In the last year of his contract. His legacy already complete with a lot more to play for.
2. Buehler’s our top postseason starter. Keep him healthy and fresh for October workload.
3. Urias has broken out. Let’s limit those innings because we’re going to lean hard on him.
4. Gonsolin by default. A lot to ask of him but maybe this is his opportunity. Price is also an option but unlikely in my opinion.
5. Open spot. Probably need to swing a trade soon to address it.
(Not considering Gray right now.)
Not arguing with your points, but if you limit Urias’ innings (which I agree with) and Gonsolin is only going 3-4 innings each time out and you have nobody for #5, your rotation is in deep doodoo.
We may need two more starters, whether they be from our own organization or from trades. This staff could be totally shot by September without reinforcements, and they need to get here pretty quickly.
Fair points. I was being generous calling Gonsolin a #4. More likely he’s a #5 and we need to add a four. Stupid Bauer. Messing with my money.
Tonight’s winning lineup:
RF Mookie
1B Max
3B JT
CF Cody
2B Chris
LF Matt
SS Gavin
C Austin
P Julio
This country is losing its identity. It was long ago that innocent until proven guilty what a birthright for all Americans. This is the case no longer. It’s sad to see freedom stipped away, little by little while it goes mostly unnoticed.
Call me crazy, but I think the current regime that runs baseball is very anti Dodgers. They did the same thing to Urias and it wound up being unwarranted. They tried to suspend Chase Utley for a rule he didn’t violate that then implemented a rule as the ultimate result. They changed the roster rules for September because the Dodgers deep September rosters. They implemented the three batter rule to combat Doc, the biggest abuser of pitching changes. They even mandated the Dodgers get under the cap for a couple of years using the debt service rule as a reason.
I very shocked to hear this after Doc said in an interview that it was MLBs decision to start Bauer on Sunday. I don’t know why I listen to Doc, he seems to be wrong way more often than right on any given subject.
Coincidence, or consequence that this happens on the same day they visit the White House?
Pocahontas did it.
It’s “innocent until proven guilty IN A COURT OF LAW”. It’s amazing how many people get this wrong.
If you think your innocence shouldn’t transcend into everything else, you’re part of the problem. You’re the one that’s got it wrong.
Agree 100%. I mean I know Ozuna is on the IL, but they could have put him on the same admin leave but have not. And with him there is no question at all. The cops saw it.
Yesterday MLB told the Dodgers that Bauer could make his next start on Sunday.
Then the allegations became more graphic and detailed. It was then that MLB stepped in a put him on “Administrative” leave.
Doc repeated what the Dodgers had been told AT THE TIME.
There are several here who automatically jump to conclusions about Doc. Yesterday, he stated what the Dodgers were told and today, things changed!
I think SCUMFRED had it all planned out. Not sure just why the owners don’t buy him out and move on. He has been HORRIBLE for the game & frankly, sometimes it seems like he is anti-bball. Or, more like A LOT of times.
Totally agree. I would have been just as uncomfortable as he was discussing crap like that. His job is to manage the team, not make statements about charges against his players.
Ya, it was just chicken sh*t of management to put Doc in that position. ‘ Oh,MLB says he can play Sunday’. Well what does Dodger management/ownership say???? They hid behind Doc and MLB. Maybe they might want to take a public position?
Well, he is not starting on Sunday. This all happened pretty quickly and it is not clear to me if the Dodgers can put him on the Restricted List without MLB’s approval. I think the Dodgers were not rushing to judgment as frequently the facts evolve. They had a few days. In Chapman’s case, the Police saw what happened. Here? We still have no clue…
Jump to conclusions? That guy’s less reliable than CNN. It doesn’t surprise me that MLB would say something one day, and change their minds the next. They told all the pitchers that they wouldn’t change anything with the goop this year, then changed their minds and we all know the shit show that’s happened since.
Oh yeah, and I forgot another example of the MLB screwing us. Joe Kelly getting an unheard of suspension for hitting a cheater who he didn’t actually hit and none of the cheaters getting any suspensions for cheating. Mxnfred is a turd.
I don’t agree with all your analysis, but I agree with the conclusion.
This has nothing to do with Doc.
A lot of good points.
This situation with Bauer is different that Kobe Bryant’s situation. He made a big mistake in a spur of the moment decision. Stupid. Almost destroyed his life and career. But it was a split second moment of stupidity. I don’t give Bauer that much credit. He planned these encounters. He should have never put himself in this position to begin with. Hooking up with random women he knows nothing about who want to be smacked around and strangled? Oh, that had no potential to come back and bite him in the ass. None at all.
I don’t make Kobe or Bauer money. But I’ve been an employer for the better part of 20 years. I have no public image to worry about nor a massive contract that could be canceled. But I have learned to never put myself in a position to be accused of anything that could lead to civil or criminal liability. Ever. Never alone with employees. Never socialize with employees. Have my lawyer and my accountant provide advise on tax decisions. Always CYA. CYA CYA CYA. Never put yourself in a position where somebody could come back and accuse you of something.
Now if the criminal allegations turn out to be true, then we know his career is over. As it should be. If they aren’t true, his career will likely never be the same. This could potentially turn into a media circus type trial where he loses regardless of the outcome. His career might be over, either way. And I simply don’t have much sympathy. This is 2020. He’s not a kid. He has high paid lawyers and agents. This is just stupid. And I hope the Dodgers rid themselves of him if this becomes a media circus. Move on.
Just MHO
Good examples are Billy Graham & Franklin Graham & many pastors. They will NEVER be in a room alone with a woman who is not their wife. Woketards criticize them & say they have “woman problems” and do not trust themselves. I say they are smart.
There are pastors on the other side of that coin like Jimmy Swaggart. But anyone who is in the public eye and does something that dumb deserves what ever happens to them.
Not sure what to make of this, from USA Today:
Hours before Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Trevor Bauer was placed on seven-day administrative leave by Major League Baseball, a lieutenant with the Pasadena Police Department said the investigation into allegations that Bauer assaulted a 27-year-old woman during two sexual encounters is “bigger than we thought.”
“We were looking into some things and we thought we were nearing the end,’’ Lt. Carolyn Gordon, who is overseeing the investigation, told USA TODAY Sports Friday. “We are not close to the end.
“This investigation is bigger than we thought. So we have to look a few more places. We want to try to uncover as much stuff as we can.”
I would read into that the potential that other women may have come forward.
OR… maybe the woman has done this before?
Totally, everyone is dismissing the Rachel Luba tweet that you posted.
I’m not.
Think about this. Bauer is a rich guy.
Rich guys have home security and surveillance systems. Think about that part.
She allegedly went to his house. His video system could show what she looked like when she left. There are also cameras on the Freeway. If it’s bogus, it might be easy to prove… QUICKLY!
Non-lawyers speak of innocence and guilt but don’t always know what they mean.
In a legal context, innocence has to do with a judicial determination which could affect life or liberty. The trier of fact (usually a jury) gets to make the decision. The legal standard is “beyond a reasonable doubt”. The jury will only get to consider evidence which has been offered by an attorney and has been admitted into evidence by a judge, so not all information gets considered.
Major League Baseball is not a jury. The presumption of innocence does not apply to its determinations. The limitation of what evidence that it may consider when reaching a decision about what to do with a player does not apply either. MLB can consider investigations conducted by attorneys, the police, private investigators, or others.
The evidentiary standard “beyond a reasonable doubt” doesn’t apply either. In non-criminal proceedings, the standard is usually “a preponderance of the evidence”, meaning more likely than not – a sort of 51% standard.
Unless MLB limits itself to only making a decision based on what the criminal justice system does (they don’t have to and probably won’t) then there are many possible outcomes here, but it doesn’t look good for Bauer or the Dodgers.
There is usually some sort of a “morals” clause in MLB contracts and a violation of this could result in unilateral termination of the contract. The Dodgers are not likely to go this direction without damning evidence but again, the criminal law standards don’t have to be met.
Exactly!
That advice just cost us $275.00. Cough it up, people!
Thank you, Counselor!
I only have a $100.
I can throw in half a snickers bar.
I am not rushing to judgment. MLB did the right thing.
Now they have 7 days to investigate, At that juncture, they can reinstate him or suspend him.
Barring a complete “collapse” of the case, I would bet he will be suspended pending resolution of the situation.
I think the Dodgers are making plans for life without Bauer!
However, it is not the end of the World. They won the World Series without Bauer and they can do it again.
Price could be stretched out, but it seems like he may have some type of “issue” that is preventing him from pitching a lot.
They are bringing Gonsolin along slowly so as not to have a re-occurrence of his shoulder issues. That is the right way, but over the next couple of starts, he will start hitting 5 or 6 innings.
Mitch White will be back shortly, but he’s not a starter (in my opinion).
I don’t think Pepiot will get the call until later this season (if it is this season).
Nelson is too good where he is.
JoJo Gray could be a bullpen possibility, but he is at least a month away… probably longer.
The key word is DON’T PANIC.
See what the next seven days bring and it will be clearer!
100%. And I don’t think the Dodgers will panic and neither should the fans. From the teams perspective this isn’t really much different than an injury. You look at possible outcomes and you make decisions accordingly.
Right or wrong, fair or unfair. Just or unjust. The reality is the reality. And I believe the reality is Bauer is unlikely to pitch again this year. So we move on.
Tony G just became much more important. And making a move by the deadline just became much more important. Beyond that, what happens with Bauer is what will happen with Bauer. Out of their control. Move on.
Gonsolin could go 5-6 innings now but he can’t. It is not like he can decide to go 5-6 innings. He was lucky to go as far as he did. He totally lost command. If Corbin hadn’t bailed him out swinging at pitches over his head he wouldn’t have gotten out of that inning. Unless he gets healthy he cannot b counted on. They have Jackson the 40 man. They have Uceta. Your probably right about price. They have kickham there opening day spring training starter but is not on the 40 man.
We can probably limp into the all star break with what we have but they have to have a contingency plan. I saw this coming a month ago so AF playing chess is way ahead of me.
Good stuff.
A few months ago I wrote:
“Trevor Bauer is a ____________ ”
You might want to go back and re-read it!
https://ladodgertalk.com/2021/03/28/trevor-bauer-is-a-__________/
Former Dodger pitcher?
“I would rather lose without him than win with him”. That phrase stuck in my mind from the article.
That’s how I feel about Lebron.
I was never enamored with Trevor and this chapter will decide his fate.
I gave him the benefit of the doubt. I don’t do social media so I don’t care.
Couldn’t stay on the field. Verdict: bad signing.
Move on. Quickly.
I liked the personality, the antics. But when I saw he was 6W-5 L, I thought, cut the social media bullshit, and play baseball. I liked the Puig antics too.But I heard a few guys (Seager) were happy to see him go, he was a distraction.
One of my issues with Trevor has been his “sort of” “friendship” with Machdo, the whole “he’s my daddy” and sheeyit like that. For me, as far as competition goes, they are the ENEMY. The whole thing with many players these days with their playful banter with the opposite team while on the field playing is not how I learned to compete in sports. Respect them, even be friends while off the field, but when you are playing the job is to destroy them, make them feel bad, make them feel like YOU are their daddy. Regardless of reality. Frankly, I want to see badass attitudes on the field.
Does Will Smith really need a day off? You would think with Scherzer on the mound, Doc would have his best lineup in there.
Just Doc being Doc
Bellinger looking more and more like Peters. A big hole in his bat with fastballs.
Bellinger can’t catch up with the fastball. Scherzer has thrown him 3 right down the middle. In previous games I thought it was timing but right now he can’t catch up to anybody’s fastball. I realize scherzer is scherzer but it has been most everybody. He has got to come alive to help the offense.
Yep, no adjustments swing from the heals, no two strike approach
A while ago he actually had a couple ab’s where he shortened up and dinked them into the opposite field. Now it seems like he has given up on that.
Don’t leave me high
Don’t leave me dry
Choosing between him and Seager becoming easier by the day.
The DH can’t come fast enough for Turner! Wow! And Betts looks more and more like a stupor star!
Schwarber out injured. I wish him a speedy recovery & hope he comes back by Monday/Tuesday.
the bottom three in this lineup is a automatic wasted inning. Lux and Barnes need a change.
Six game winning streak is good.
Scherzer is an all-time great.
I’m drinking Portuguese red wine by the pool. Lighting the coals in ten minutes.
All in all, I’ll take it.
He knew he had to hurry with Alberts speed
I believe.
Who says we can’t beat them when Scherzer starts. Just get to the bullpen and do the damage at that time.
Lucky number seven
Impressive bench tonight!! Dodgers have enough good bats to handle lefties. Pujois is a contact hitter and a smart hitter. The double play ball is his only real problem but I am confident he will make contact. Robert’s making the right moves tonight.
Pads lose in 10!! Whaah!!!!
You know, getting no hit a while back could be the best thing that ever happened to this team. They’ve been winning ever since . Actually when Mark wrote that , I thought, ya right, you and your positivity,, always the optimist. Finding that silver lining. But maybe it was a bottoming out. I hope that’s the case now more than ever, and it really kind of looks like that.
A lot of speculation here…
For example, if Bauer has security camera footage of his accuser leaving his apartment, and that footage gives a clear image of her physical condition, that is not necessarily exonerating. It could even be incriminating. And it could be neither.
And if Pasadena PD asks for access and Bauer balks, the accuser will be awarded an extra base.
Agree that some sort of out-of-court resolution seems likely.
Listening to Orel Hershiser reminds me of the hotels.com commercials featuring “Captain Obvious”.
Schwarber won’t be back for awhile, not by the looks of it anyways. Dude was walking like the morning after spending the night at Bauer’s house. Too soon?
What’s with the gloves today? These guys looked liked the spill cleanup crew at the KY factory.
Graterol looks like he could be a defensive end in the NFL or a WWE wrestler. That dude is a big man.
Urias settled down nicely.
It’s painful watching Pujols “run”. He makes 1988 Kirk Gibson look healthy.
It’s funny how people can be so smart, yet so stupid. I sent Bauer an “Internet Safety for Dummies” book, but I think I’m a little late.
I was touched to learn that Joe Davis named his baby son Theodore “Orel” after his buddy and workmate. One of my favorite Dodgers of all time.
Scherzer did well in his Dodgers tryout today. We’ll be in touch considering the circumstances.
I just hope the kid is not as gabby as Orel.
Dodger legend
In his own mind maybe. Orel had one great year, and some good ones. Just so happened his great year was 88 and they won the World Series. He won 135 games as a Dodger, he is not in the top 10 career wise in any of the main categories. He had 2 really good seasons, 1985 when he went 19-3, and 88 when he won 23 and lost 8. For most of his career his ERA was over 3 and he finished with a 3.48. One thing he did do was pitch a lot of innings. But he was not nearly as good as everyone thinks he was, and he certainly is not Hall of Fame material. He has less wins than Johnny Podres as a Dodger. He barely won over 200, and it took him 18 years to win that many. Sutton was another very good pitcher who got into the Hall based on longevity because he never won a Cy Young, ERA title, or any other major pitching award, but he was around for well over 20 years. Koufax is a legend, Hershiser is a foot note.
In my lifetime:
1. Orel
2. Gibson
3. Piazza
4. Kershaw
5. Fernando
Haven’t been watching the team long have you? My life, Koufax, Drysdale, Snider, Piazza and Campy
Back to baseball…
Was that the first time that Old Man Albert came in to pinch hit for Lux?
Certainly paid off.
I hope Lux is a little bit embarrassed to be pulled for a pinch-hitter, even if it is a future Hall of Famer. I hope that Lux lives up the hype and we look back say, “Gee, remember when he was yanked for a 41-year-old pinch-hitter?”
And while I haven’t delved into the stats, I feel more confident with Taylor as SS than Lux. He pulled Muncy off the bad with one high throw but the runner was slow enough that it was still an out. On another Lux failed to follow John Wooden’s “be quick” dictum and got a fast runner by a 1/4 step.
I really appreciated the thoroughness of the discussion of the Bauer situation. Thank you all–especially Bear–for his eloquent and thoughtful kickoff. Now we wait and plan for the trade deadline.
Unfortunately, most of our power pitching prospects are probably a couple of years away. Although maybe we could learn to grab big league starters for low level farmhands like AJ Preller. Although he’s the enemy, I do admire his skillfulness.
Like everyone here, I would love to have Scherzer. Maybe he’ll grow tired of the run support he gets in DC.
The real issue may be that no team will want to help us out. But, on the brighter side, it could be an opportunity to thin out some of our surplus prospect depth.
However if the competition is Preller, Friedman may not be magician enough!
Scherzer is not coming to LA, he wants an extension to waive his no trade rights, and no way AF does that. Preller has 2 of his starters out of action, and the Padres farm is a little thinner than it was. I do not think they are going to pry Scherzer away from the Nats.
When Mookie or Gavin reach the batter’s box, I look into the hollow of their eyes and see fear, pure fear. They definitely lack Muncy’s fierce determination. Bellinger, too, seems afraid.
They just need to get over that fear, and find a way back into the flow of the game. The way Pujols does. How he carefully picks his holes and adjusts his swing, to do what’s necessary. Perhaps he can help. They’re close.
I see no fear in any of them I see frustration more than anything else. Mookie will be fine, and remember this, Bellinger has not even played in 30 games yet. He started spring late, got injured early in the season, has missed 2 plus months and just got back about 2 weeks ago. Lux is a kid, and he has holes that need to be worked on. He has also been streaky since he took over the job. Just think how different this offense is going to look when Seager is healthy and back in the lineup.