Blue Jays linked to reunion with free agent All-Star pitcher from Cubs

1 month ago 11

The Toronto Blue Jays fell short of expectations in 2026.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had a disappointing year at the plate, hitting his first home run of the season at home in September.

At the trade deadline, Toronto did a solid job of balancing a fine line between buying and selling, trading away impending free agents while acquiring players under control through 2027 and beyond.

One of the players dealt away was right-hander Kevin Gausman, a fan favorite who spent parts of five seasons with the Blue Jays.

Gausman, a two-time All-Star, was traded to the Chicago Cubs for outfielder Brett Bateman and infielder Ty Southisene.

Now that Gausman is a free agent, Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly wrote that it wouldn't be a surprise if the Blue Jays had interest in signing the 35-year-old.

"Max Scherzer, Jameson Taillon and Shane Bieber will be coming off the books this offseason. Bowden Francis had Tommy John surgery in February, so it might be a stretch for him to be ready for Opening Day," Kelly wrote. "José Berríos had Tommy John surgery in May, so he's more likely in play for the second half of the 2027 season. Cody Ponce will also be returning from a major procedure, as he tore the ACL in his right knee in April."

Before the trade, Gausman posted a 4.38 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, and struck out nine batters per nine innings across 23 starts.

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"The point is, the Blue Jays will need starting pitching depth heading into 2027. A one-year deal with Gausman would give them that, even if he's no longer a top-of-the-rotation starter," Kelly added.

In terms of the starting pitching market, Gausman won't be one of the top names available this offseason.

But the Blue Jays could do a lot worse, and they are familiar with his pitching style and the person.