Kevin Gausman is focused on a significant goal with the Chicago Cubs. After 14 seasons in the major leagues, reaching the World Series again is his main mission. Last year, while playing for Toronto, Gausman started Game 6 of the World Series. However, Toronto’s postseason ended painfully as they lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers after failing to hold a 3-2 series lead, eventually falling in Game 7 during extra innings.
The Cubs’ decision to acquire Gausman reflects the front office’s confidence not only in the current team but also in Gausman’s track record and playoff experience. For Gausman, the ambition remains clear: get back to the World Series, this time with the Cubs.
“It’s an addicting drug once you get there,” Gausman stated. “Losing was heartbreaking, but playing in the World Series is a dream all big-leaguers have, and being there was both fun and heartbreaking. Once you’re there, you want to return, so I’m excited about the possibility with this team.”
Manager Craig Counsell now faces the task of managing a surplus in the Cubs’ rotation. Gausman, scheduled to debut against the Kansas City Royals, aims to improve his consistency. Since his toughest start of the year on June 19, ironically against the Cubs, he has maintained a 6.47 ERA with 20 walks over 40 1/3 innings.
“I need to eat innings here, which is why they brought me to start games and go deep into games,” Gausman noted.
Jed Hoyer, the Cubs’ president of baseball operations, has long been interested in Gausman. Describing him as their “white whale,” Hoyer finally secured him in a Sunday night deal. Gausman anticipates taking advantage of the Cubs’ strong defense when he plays at Kauffman Stadium.
“It lets you be on the attack mode,” Gausman commented. “In every situation, it feels like the outcome will usually favor you.”
Dansby Swanson shared his admiration for Gausman, having played with him in Atlanta in 2018 and 2019. He praised Gausman’s composure, highlighting his unique pitching style that presents challenges for batters.
“There are things he can fall back on and he’s always consistent. With his delivery and pitch variety, he consistently puts batters in a bind,” Swanson explained.
The Cubs have yet to see any pitcher reach the eighth inning this season. The addition of Gausman, along with pitcher Clay Holmes, aims to alleviate the bullpen’s stress. Both are part of the plan to provide relief, especially during injury-induced strains.
Gausman reunited with some of his former Blue Jays teammates at Wrigley Field. Thursday’s game would have been his “revenge game” had he remained with the Blue Jays, given a past rough encounter with the Cubs. Instead, he will pitch on Friday, hoping to continue the Cubs’ strong performance.
“I’ve been on a team before where acquiring new pieces at the trade deadline didn’t happen, so joining this team and seeing these moves is energizing,” Gausman remarked. “This team might not need a spark, but it’s exciting to be here.”
Leave a Reply