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MLB Trade Rumors predicts a Kevin Gausman reunion with Blue Jays

Two of three MLBTR experts see the former Toronto ace coming home on a two-year, $44 million deal.
ByEdward Eng
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Jul 19, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman (34) in the dug out during the second inning against the Chicago White Sox at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Jul 19, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Kevin Gausman (34) in the dug out during the second inning against the Chicago White Sox at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

When MLB Trade Rumors released their list of 2026-27 Top 50 Free Agents with Predictions, former Toronto Blue Jays fan favourite Kevin Gausman landed at No. 18. The projection is that Gausman is projected to receive a two-year deal worth for $44 million.

More significantly wwo of the three MLBTR experts see the Blue Jays reuniting with their former ace this offseason. The third has Gausman heading to division rival Baltimore, much like Chris Bassitt did last winter.

Why a Kevin Gausman return still makes sense for the Blue Jays' rotation

So why should the Blue Jays consider bringing back their heart and soul of the team for the past five seasons? MLBTR was right to call Gausman one of the “most consistent and durable workhorses” in baseball. Aside from an uncharacteristic 4.51 ERA in 2026, his peripherals remain solid, including a 6.3% walk rate and 24.5% strikeout rate over 32 starts. He has also made at least 31 starts and thrown more than 174 innings in each of his past five seasons.

MLBTR also noted that Gausman has a better track record than Merrill Kelly, who landed a two-year$40 million contract last winter. By comparison, two-years at $44 million for the former Blue Jays ace doesn't feel like it's asking too much

MLBTR even mentioned how Gausman and his family went through the emotions when he was dealt to the Chicago Cubs at the trade deadline. They really considered Toronto their home.  Gausman further showed his love for the city by donning a Maple Leafs jersey in his recent Halloween family photo. If given the chance to return, there's no doubt he and his family would welcome it with open arms.

One thing is for sure: Gausman wouldn't be coming back as the ace. Dylan Cease took over that role with his outstanding 2026 in Toronto. But as a middle-to-back-end option, Gausman would make the Blue Jays' starting five more confident and complete heading into next season.

A reunion could also add some excitement to the clubhouse and motivate Toronto toward more winning in 2027. And as the cherry on top, it would give Gausman a chance to finish his unfinished business and chase a World Series title with the team he gave his all for most of this decade.

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