The Winnipeg Jets announced today that they’ve re-signed defenceman Tyrel Bauer to a one-year, two-way contract worth $775,000 at the NHL level.

Bauer, 23, suited up in 59 games for the Manitoba Moose last season, picking up two assists and racking up 105 penalty minutes. Known for his physical edge and leadership, the Cochrane, Alberta native was just as impactful off the ice. He was named the Moose’s IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year for 2024-25 and also received the EPRA Julian Klymkiw Community Service Award and Richard Bue Ultimate Teammate Award — highlighting the respect he’s earned both in the room and around the community.

Originally drafted 164th overall by the Jets in the sixth round of the 2020 NHL Draft, Bauer played his junior hockey with the Seattle Thunderbirds, where he wore the “C” and built a reputation as a tough, steady, stay-at-home defenceman.

Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing in at 216 pounds, Bauer just wrapped up his entry-level deal, which carried an AAV of $850,000. He was a restricted free agent heading into the summer.

In 162 career AHL games with the Moose, Bauer has recorded four goals, 12 assists, and 291 penalty minutes — providing consistent grit and a reliable presence on the back end.

The Moose, coming off an atrociously bad season, are looking to bounce back and make a return to the Calder Cup Playoffs. With Bauer returning, their blue line is just about set heading into 2025–26, alongside Isaak Phillips, Dylan Anhorn, Elias Salomonsson, Kale Clague, and Graham Sward.

While Bauer has yet to crack the Jets’ lineup, this new deal gives him another shot to grow within the organization. He’s carved out a clear role as a tone-setter in the AHL and could find himself in the call-up conversation if injuries hit Winnipeg’s defence. For now, he remains a cornerstone of the Moose’s leadership group and continues to bring the kind of work ethic and character the Jets value throughout their system.