Trevor Bauer, a former Cy Young Award winner, returned to U.S. baseball with a no-hitter in just his second start since a lengthy suspension. He threw the no-hitter for the Long Island Ducks in a dominant 13-0 victory over the Lancaster Stormers at Penn Medicine Park.
Bauer’s performance marked his second start in the United States since his last MLB game in June 2021. He threw 84 pitches, striking out seven hitters and walking one. His fastball velocity ranged mostly between 92 and 94 mph during the outing.
To start the season in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball, Bauer has posted an impressive 1.64 ERA. His first start for the Ducks was on April 21, 2026, after signing with the team earlier that month.
Bauer was previously suspended for 324 games due to sexual assault allegations, which were later reduced to 184 games. He has maintained his innocence regarding these allegations and settled with one accuser while another faces serious legal issues.
“I’m looking forward to competing in front of U.S. fans again this season,” Bauer said after the game. “I just want to be around American fans and enjoy playing baseball in my home country because I’ve not been allowed to play baseball in my home country for years for no good reason.”
Observers noted that Bauer showed flashes of the pitcher he used to be. An AL team scout remarked, “He showed flashes of the guy he used to be and a guy who can help a club.”
Yet questions linger about how his past will affect his future opportunities in MLB. “So, since Pete is welcome back now, does that go for everyone who has been blackballed?” Bauer asked rhetorically.
His next steps remain uncertain as he aims to regain a spot in Major League Baseball. Meanwhile, fans and analysts will watch closely as he continues his journey in the Atlantic League.
