The Long Island Ducks have made headlines with a major—and controversial—signing, bringing in former Cy Young Award winner Trevor Bauer for the 2026 season.
Bauer, who enters his 15th season of professional baseball, will be making his debut with the Ducks and is currently projected to serve as the team’s Opening Night starter on April 21 at Fairfield Properties Ballpark. In a unique twist, Bauer will also be “mic’d up” for games and practices, with content shared across both his personal platforms and the team’s social media and streaming outlets, offering fans an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look.
“We are excited to welcome Trevor to Long Island,” said Ducks President and Chief Baseball Officer Michael Pfaff. “His talent and knowledge will be important additions to our ballclub, and we are happy to offer him this opportunity to showcase his abilities to MLB clubs while giving fans a new way to experience Ducks baseball.”
Originally selected third overall in the 2011 MLB Draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks, Bauer made his Major League debut in 2012 and went on to pitch 10 seasons at the highest level. Over that span, he suited up for the Diamondbacks, Cleveland Indians, Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Dodgers, compiling 83 wins across 212 starts.
His standout season came in 2020, when he captured the Cy Young Award after posting a 1.73 ERA with 100 strikeouts in 73 innings for Cincinnati. In recent years, Bauer has continued his career overseas, pitching in both Japan and Mexico.
“I’m looking forward to competing in front of U.S. fans again this season,” Bauer said. “The Ducks have had some incredible players come through their organization, and I’m excited to be part of that tradition.”
With Opening Day approaching, all eyes will be on Long Island as one of baseball’s most talked-about figures takes the mound.