Gausman, 35, is tossing a 4.38 ERA through 23 starts this season after making his final start with the Jays on Saturday. He is only one of three pitchers to toss more than 900 strikeouts with a sub-3.75 ERA since 2022.
But the veteran made sure to go out on a high note for the home fans after giving up one run through 5.2 innings of work in his final start. He was met with a loud standing ovation as he walked off the mound in Toronto wearing a Blue Jays uniform for what was the final time.
After a rough five-and-a-half years to start his career with the Orioles, Gausman found his footing during the 2020 and 2021 seasons with the San Francisco Giants before becoming a key starter and a fan-favorite for the Blue Jays.
Gausman's run in Toronto ends
In 2023, Gausman led the American League with a career-best 237 strikeouts paired with a 3.15, ultimately finishing third in AL Cy Young Award voting. Throughout his first 11 years in the league, Gausman had yet to toss a complete game or a complete game shutout.
Then he recorded a complete game shutout in back-to-back seasons in 2024 and 2025.
Gausman cemented himself in Blue Jays history as he went into Saturday's game ninth in starts, sixth in ERA, seventh in strikeouts, and second in strikeout rate.
Manager Dan Schneider said that Gausman was one of the best free agent signings in the franchise's history ahead of his final start with the club.
Blue Jays' return
Bateman, 24, is currently tearing it up in AAA this season. The outfielder is slashing .312/.431/.422 with three home runs, 33 RBI, and 20 stolen bases in 81 games.
Meanwhile, Southisene, 21, is also having a great year in the minors. The infielder is currently hitting .311 with an .809 OPS that includes a .431 on-base percentage.
Southisene, not known for power at all, doesn't have a single home run this season. But he has 35 RBI, 31 stolen bases, and more walks (41) than strikeouts (37) in 65 games between High-A (43) and Single-A (22).
MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL
The 2026 MLB Trade Deadline is fast approaching, as teams have until 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time on August 3rd to get any deals done! Follow along with Flashscore as we report on all the trades happening through the weekend.