The Toronto Blue Jays' season is in disarray, and the name of Kevin Gausman, a right-handed pitcher, has been at the center of trade rumors. With the team's struggles continuing, Gausman's future with the Blue Jays is uncertain, and his name has been linked to a potential trade to multiple teams.
According to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal, Gausman's no-trade list includes eight teams: the Cincinnati Reds, Milwaukee Brewers, Detroit Tigers, New York Mets, Chicago White Sox, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Seattle Mariners. Interestingly, the Mets, Reds, Pirates, and Tigers are considered unlikely candidates to be involved in negotiations, as they are on the outskirts of contention and Gausman's contract is set to expire at the end of the season. This could be a strategic move by Gausman to ensure he is traded to a team with a stronger chance of making the playoffs.
The Brewers, who are already dealing with injuries to key pitchers, could be an intriguing option for Gausman. They are sitting second in the National League standings with a strong record, and acquiring a reliable starter like Gausman could be a significant boost to their rotation. However, Gausman's recent performance has been less than stellar, with a 4-9 record and 4.51 ERA this season. Despite this, his experience as a two-time All-Star and his five-year, $110 million contract make him an attractive addition for any contending team.
The Blue Jays, on the other hand, are facing a challenging season. With a 46-55 record, they are fifth in the American League East and six games out of a wild-card berth. Their struggles are evident in their low number of runs scored, and the team's performance has been inconsistent. Gausman's struggles at the Rogers Centre, where he allowed five runs in 3.1 innings, further highlight the team's challenges. Despite this, he remains focused on the Blue Jays and their current situation, refusing to dwell on potential trade scenarios.
The trade deadline is looming, and the Blue Jays' position as sellers seems inevitable. With Gausman's name in the mix, the team's future is uncertain, and the potential trade could have significant implications for both the Blue Jays and the acquiring team. The Brewers, in particular, could benefit from acquiring a reliable starter, but the question remains whether Gausman's performance will improve or if he will be a liability for any team.
