Winnipeg Jets Sign Big 6-Foot-3 Defenseman to New Contract

Tyrel Bauer, age 23, had two assists and 105 penalty minutes in 59 AHL games for the Manitoba Moose last season.

Bauer was recognized for his involvement in the local community

The Cochrane, Alberta, product was named the Moose winner of the 2024-25 IOA/American AHL Specialty Man of the Year for his amazing contributions to the community.

Bauer was also recognized with Manitoba's 2024-25 EPRA Julian Klymkiw Community Service Award and Richard Bue Ultimate Teammate Award, truly showcasing his worth off the ice as well.

Bauer, Winnipeg's sixth-round pick (164th overall) in the 2020 NHL Draft, has played in 162 AHL games for the Moose, posting 16 points (4G, 12A) and 291 penalty minutes.

It's a bit surprising to see Winnipeg dole out an NHL contract to Bauer since the possibility of a call-up at any point in his career is not likely, unless he drastically improves to make him a more palatable enforcer.

Nonetheless, it appears they view him as a valuable depth piece for his size and will keep him in the system for another season after his entry-level contract expired recently.