"Nestor Cortes against Freddie Freeman" - MLB fans troll Trevor Bauer after American gets smacked around by European kids in London showdown

As Trevor Bauer's quest to re-join the MLB enters its second offseason, the former major league hurler is employing newer, even more creative ways of building his brand. However, his most recent ploy may have caused unforeseen circumstances.

After winning the Pitcher of the Year Award in Mexico's LMB this season, Bauer embarked on a European tour. After appearing for Team Switzerland against Team Czech Republic, Bauer challenged some 14-year-old locals to a hit-off, which yielded some surprising circumstances.

"14 year old European children taking him deep as f*ck this is so healing" - Goblin Gobbler

For Trevor Bauer - who won the 2020 Cy Young Award with the Cincinnati Reds - the outcome of his pitching appearance was at least one homer from a 14-year-old. Predictably, fans took to social media to have their say.

Some equated the amateur blast to Freddie Freeman's grand slam on Friday night to win Game 1 of the World Series for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Bauer pitched for the Dodgers before leaving MLB and boasted an 8-5 record and 2.59 ERA with the team as of his last MLB appearance.

"Nestor Cortes vs Freddie Freeman" - mused an observer

"At this rate, they'll be running deep philosophy podcasts by 16!" - remarked a fan

"This is hilarious" - chortled another onlooker

In 2021, Bauer was suspended 194 games after finding himself at the center of a sexual abuse case. Although charges were never brought against the provocative pitcher, the LA native opted to play in Japan in 2023. Though he has expressed interest in re-joining MLB, the 33-year-old has not garnered any offers on account of his personal baggage. Bauer still maintains a large following of fans, some of whom offered explanations for the unraveling against the youthful hitting corps.

"Dude is having fun with kids. Do you want him blowing 96 mph gas at their hands instead?" - claimed a fan of Bauer's

"Chill. He’s throwing 75mph muffins" - came another voice of support

Trevor Bauer continues his quest for an MLB contract

After rumors of a potential deal with the Houston Astros for the 2024 season went nowhere, Trevor Bauer is once again campaigning for an MLB deal. After strong seasons abroad in Mexico and Japan, hesitancy remains among MLB GMs. After getting pounded by a 14-year-old, perhaps Bauer is closer to a return to MLB than many realize.