Kevin Gausman has finally joined the Chicago Cubs, ending years of rumors linking the veteran right-hander to the franchise. Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer said the team frequently checked on his status before completing a deal with Toronto.
The move did not catch Gausman or his family off guard. The pitcher noted that his wife’s reaction showed how long the connection between him and Chicago had been discussed after learning the Cubs were his new destination.
Kevin Gausman joins Cubs after extended speculation
Gausman was placed on the Cubs’ active roster before Wednesday’s series finale against the Los Angeles Dodgers, with left-hander Antoine Kelly moved to Triple-A Iowa.
The 35-year-old will make his Chicago debut on Friday night against Kansas City. He joins a pitching staff that also added Clay Holmes, while the Cubs acquired reliever Ryan Zeferjahn and left-hander Braxton Garrett in other deadline moves.
Gausman said watching the Cubs bring in new players showed the team’s drive and described the additions as a way to generate fresh momentum in a clubhouse that was already playing well.
Cubs trade brings veteran stability to rotation
The right-hander arrives in Chicago with a mixed 2026 campaign, holding a 5-10 record and a 4.38 ERA over 23 starts. Earlier this season, he faced the Cubs and allowed seven runs on seven hits across two innings during a June defeat.
Despite those struggles, Gausman offers a track record of durability and reliability. Over the previous five seasons, he made at least 31 starts each year and pitched a minimum of 174 2/3 innings.
His final outing with Toronto showed his ability to deliver quality frames, as he threw 5 2/3 innings while giving up one run in a win over St. Louis.
Kevin Gausman aims for another World Series run with Cubs
Gausman was part of Toronto’s trip to the 2025 World Series, making six postseason starts with a 2-3 record and a 2.93 ERA. The Blue Jays eventually lost to the Dodgers, a team that could also block Chicago’s path in the current playoff race.
The pitcher said reaching the World Series made him even more determined to get back to that stage, adding that he was thrilled about the chance to make another deep playoff push with the Cubs.
Cubs sort out rotation after deadline additions
The Cubs now have several choices to make regarding their pitching plans. Along with the new arrivals, the team has Edward Cabrera, Daniel Palencia, and Hoby Milner recovering at Triple-A Iowa.
Colin Rea has shifted back to the bullpen after Chicago skipped his next scheduled start. Manager Craig Counsell said the current situation might require players to adapt to new responsibilities.
Counsell also mentioned that the competition within the starting rotation could help the team as the Cubs figure out the best way to manage their pitchers.