Bauer returns to U.S. with minor league Ducks

Trevor Bauer is returning to baseball in the United States.

Multiple reports on Thursday said the former Cy Young Award winner has signed with the Long Island Ducks of the Atlantic League. He is scheduled to pitch on opening night, April 21.

The move brings Bauer back to U.S. professional baseball after playing in Japan and Mexico. Reports said the signing was confirmed on the same day by several outlets, including AP-syndicated coverage and other wire reports.

Bauer’s career has remained closely watched because of both his on-field success and the off-field issues that ended his major league run. The Ducks’ deal gives him a new chance to pitch in front of U.S. teams and evaluators.

It is not yet clear whether the signing will lead to any further major league interest, but the immediate news is straightforward: Bauer has a new team, and he is set to take the mound on April 21.