Chicago Cubs Acquire Kevin Gausman From Blue Jays for Two Prospects

The Chicago Cubs have found the veteran starter their pitching rotation desperately needed, acquiring right-hander Kevin Gausman from the Toronto Blue Jays for infielder Ty Southisene and outfielder Brett Bateman.

The deal was officially completed Sunday night, and the Cubs have now made it clear that they’re ready to contend right now. Gausman gives Chicago a proven innings source and an experienced October arm as it prepares for what it hopes will be a deep postseason run.

The 35-year-old has endured an up-and-down season, posting a 5-10 record with a 4.38 ERA across 23 starts. Those numbers are below his usual standard, but his longer-term track record suggests he could still be a phenomenal addition for Chicago. Gausman finished inside the top 10 of Cy Young Award voting in three consecutive seasons from 2021 through 2023.

He also brings extensive playoff experience, appearing in 14 postseason games throughout his career, including eight starts. That experience could prove especially valuable for a Cubs team that has dealt with several injuries throughout its rotation.

Chicago’s offense should be capable of producing in October, but even the best lineups can’t carry a team through the postseason without reliable pitching. Acquiring Gausman gives the Cubs another starter they can trust in meaningful games and someone capable of stabilizing the rotation immediately.

The price reflected Chicago’s urgency. Southisene and Bateman were both ranked among the Cubs’ top 25 prospects by MLB Pipeline, meaning the organization surrendered two promising young players for a short-term addition. That clearly indicates the Cubs believe Gausman can be more than just another piece. They believe he can be the difference-maker who helps push them over the hump.

Gausman is in the final season of the five-year, $110 million contract he originally signed with Toronto, making him a rental unless Chicago signs him to a new deal.

Whether he remains with the Cubs beyond this season doesn’t matter right now. Chicago identified its greatest weakness and made an aggressive move to address it, prioritizing its opportunity to compete for a World Series immediately.