MLB more than any other sport is trying to present a clean family product. Their stance on PED, domestic violence, onfield tobacco use, etc. really makes the Bauer case fall into that narrative. I personally think the gambling affiliations will muddy those efforts. But I don't believe Bauer or Franco will be back in MLB for the next 3-5 years, if ever.
He might be vindicated in the eyes of the courts, but he is not vindicated within MLB who are trying to integrate women coaches and front office staff. They are getting their own baseball cards. The two narratives existing side by side would be problematic.
Personally, IMO, this just plays in with the 100+ year history of the sport. Owners have always wanted an outward appearance of clean, wholesome sport. And they get upset when their desires are muddied by average human beings.
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