Although the Blue Jays ultimately failed to take the trophy, this playoff run gave the 34-year-old pitcher a chance to show why Toronto believed and invested in him in the first place.
There are many reasons why the former first-rounder should be the Opening Day starter, but these three reasons below are the most compelling of them all.
Workhorse power
Aside from his early career struggles, Gausman has managed to throw over 174 innings every season since 2021, and his 193 innings from 2025 are comparable to his time with the San Francisco Giants in 2021 (192 innings pitched). The Colorado native’s numbers may not be as spotless as his 2021 season, but the fact is that Gausman provided enough innings for the Blue Jays to post strong results in the regular season and the playoffs.
The number of innings pitched may no longer be the most important indicator of a pitcher’s performance in the age of advanced analytics. In this case, however, this number clearly demonstrates Gausman’s value to the Blue Jays and makes a case for his continued status as a robust starter.
Underlying figures
Gausman also had one of the better underlying numbers among the Blue Jays starters in 2025 with a 3.59 ERA, 3.41 FIP and 1.06 WHIP over those 193 innings, which was again one of the best numbers in the rotation. Trey Yesavage is the only pitcher to leave Gausman behind in some way, but the rookie threw just 14 innings during the regular campaign.
Gausman’s numbers won’t reach the level of Tarik Skubal or Paul Skenes – there aren’t many players in the game who can, for a reason. Still, what he’s done in a tough division shouldn’t go unnoticed, especially considering he was one of the most reliable pitchers in the starting rotation, which at times lacked consistency.
Veteran status
What makes Gausman truly unique and deserving of Opening Day starter recognition is his career trajectory.
The right-hander began his career with the Baltimore Orioles when the team drafted him as the fourth pick in the first round in 2012. The 34-year-old’s debut came quicker than most when he entered the big leagues in May 2013, but his path to becoming a tough starter was far from easy.
Kevin Gausman strikes out Aaron Judge in a huge spot! #ALDS
Just as Gausman was facing one of the lowest points of his life, he earned a shot with the San Francisco Giants in 2020 and 2021. His time on the West Coast, especially in 2021, made him a bonafide ace with a 2.81 ERA, 2.38 FIP and 1.04 WHIP in 192 innings pitched. This rebound season helped the starter land a lucrative, long-term contract with the Blue Jays that offseason.
That tenacity alone makes an undeniable case for why Gausman should get another nod as Toronto’s starter for next Opening Day.
PRESENTED BY OFF THE ROSTER
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