Trevor Bauer’s value continues to rise

Prior to this past season, Trevor Bauer’s best overall season came in 2018 when he posted a 2.21 ERA and 221 strikeouts in 175 1/3 innings. The following season, he struck out 253 batters but his ERA was a very mediocre 4.48.  This year, Bauer posted outstanding numbers heading into free agency, posting an 11-3 record with a 1.73 ERA and 100 strikeouts with only 17 walks in 73 innings.  His performance earning him the National League Cy Young Award.

Soon to be 30-years old, Trevor Bauer helped lead the Reds to the playoffs for the first time in 2013, but the Reds likely will lose Bauer in the free agent market. The $18.9 million qualify offer to Bauer was declined, meaning the Reds will receive draft-pick compensation.

When Kevin Gausman and Marcus Stroman accepted their qualifying offers from the Giants, respectively, Trevor Bauer increased the gap between him and the next best pitchers on the market. The next tier of pitchers includes the likes of James Paxton, Jake Odorizzi, and Charlie Morton.

Despite being the top free agent pitcher on the market, there is a possibility that teams will be hesitant to pursue Bauer. That hasn’t deterred Mets team president Sandy Alderson, who likes Bauer’s personality and believe the fans in New York would welcome him with open arms. 

With the Mets likely to be one of the most assertive teams this off-season, they could be after catcher J.T. Realmuto, shortstop Francisco Lindor, outfielder George Spring, and perhaps Trevor Bauer.  With Michael Wacha, Rick Porcello likely leaving in free agency, Bauer would be an excellent fit behind ace Jacob deGrom.

Trevor Bauer enters 2021 with five 10-plus win seasons under his belt, an All-Star appearance, Cy Young Award, and two seasons with 200 or more strikeouts. He has a career record of 75-64 with an ERA of 3.90.