NASHVILLE, TN – Nashville SC announced on Tuesday that defender Josh Bauer has signed a new contract, keeping him in Music City through the 2026 season with a further option for 2027 after initially declining his 2025 option.
Bauer, 26, was selected by Nashville in the first round of the 2021 Re-Entry Draft. The University of New Hampshire product began his professional career with Atlanta United 2 in the USL Championship, also playing for Sacramento FC on loan from Nashville during their run to the US Open Cup final.
Bauer had a breakout season in 2024, making 31 appearances and starting 22 matches. Even before injuries to Lukas MacNaughton and Walker Zimmerman, Bauer was pushing his way further and further into the first-team picture. The defender provided valuable cover for the duo, and continued to push Jack Maher for the starting spot even after Zimmerman returned to fitness. Additionally, Bauer filled in at right back for Shaq Moore, who missed five matches on international duty at the Copa América.
“Josh was a key contributor for us this past season in a number of different roles on the field,” said Nashville SC General Manager Mike Jacobs in the club’s press release. “We are excited to have him back as part of the present and future of our club.”
Nashville SC roster as of December 10, 2024
Goalkeepers (2): Elliot Panicco, Joe Willis
Defenders (8): Josh Bauer, Julian Gaines, Dan Lovitz, Lukas MacNaughton, Jack Maher, Shaq Moore, Taylor Washington, Walker Zimmerman
Midfielders (10): Tyler Boyd, Sean Davis, Isaiah Jones, Randall Leal, Hany Mukhtar, Alex Muyl, Jonathan Pérez, Jacob Shaffelburg, Edvard Tagseth, Patrick Yazbek
Forwards: Teal Bunbury, Sam Surridge, Woobens Pacius, Adem Sipić
