Blue Jays likely to trade Kevin Gausman, & 3 teams make the most sense

Kevin Gausman suddenly looks like one of the most intriguing names on the MLB trade market. The Blue Jays are approaching a crossroads. If they ultimately decide this season isn’t salvageable, moving Gausman becomes one of the quickest ways to accelerate the next competitive window. He’s still capable of pitching at the front of a playoff rotation, and contenders always overpay for proven starting pitching in late July. Three teams stand out.

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The Cubs should be at the top of the list.

Chicago has enough offense to make noise in October, but its rotation still carries too many question marks behind the front end. Gausman wouldn’t simply add innings – he would give the Cubs another veteran capable of matching up against the National League’s best lineups in a postseason series. The Cubs also possess the prospect depth to make a deal that benefits both clubs.

Milwaukee is another obvious fit.

The Brewers have developed into one of baseball’s most complete teams, yet injuries and workload concerns leave room for another starter. Adding Gausman would deepen a rotation that suddenly has legitimate championship aspirations. Milwaukee’s front office has traditionally been selective, but this is exactly the type of move that could separate them from the rest of the National League. Recent analysis has also identified Gausman as one of the Brewers’ more realistic high-impact targets.

The Orioles complete the list.

Baltimore has the young talent to compete for years, but the American League remains crowded. Gausman would bring playoff experience to a relatively young rotation and shorten every postseason series.

Toronto shouldn’t trade Gausman simply to cut payroll. The return has to be meaningful. At least one major-league-ready player and premium prospect should headline any package. Otherwise, there’s more value in keeping him through the offseason.

If the Blue Jays decide to sell, Gausman may become one of the biggest dominoes before the deadline.

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