After tough loss ahead of trade deadline, Gausman says he doesn't want to leave Toronto on sour note
Toronto, Ontario – As the Toronto Blue Jays face a challenging period leading up to the August 3 trade deadline, veteran pitcher Kevin Gausman has expressed his focus on the team despite the growing uncertainty surrounding his future. The team recently experienced a significant 12-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, a result that manager John Schneider described as another frustrating day for the club.
The Blue Jays currently hold a 46-55 record, placing them nine games under .500 for the season. They are six games behind the third American League Wild Card spot, with their playoff odds calculated at nine per cent. Since June 22, the team has a 7-16 record, scoring two runs or less in 12 of those contests.
Gausman’s performance in the recent game against the Rays included allowing nine hits and four earned runs over 3.1 innings. This outing has contributed to discussions about potential roster changes as the trade deadline approaches. Gausman is in the final season of his five-year, $110 million contract, making him a potential trade candidate if the Blue Jays opt to become sellers.
Gausman’s perspective on trade speculation
Following the loss to the Rays, Gausman addressed reporters about the possibility of being traded. He stated that he is not focusing on that prospect, emphasizing his commitment to the team in the present moment. “I’m not going to think about that too much because I’m a Blue Jay right now and the focus is this team in this room and those guys,” Gausman said. He acknowledged that the idea of a trade is “kind of crazy to think about.”
Gausman’s contract includes limited no-trade protection for up to eight clubs, giving him some control over any potential move. Other players, such as George Springer and Daulton Varsho, are also in the final years of their contracts and could be considered for trades if the team decides to pursue that strategy.
The right-handed pitcher has been a key component of the Blue Jays, including their campaign when they reached Game 7 of the World Series. During the October playoff games, Gausman posted a 2.93 ERA over six appearances. However, his current season has seen him record a 4-9 record with a 4.51 ERA over 115.2 innings and 21 starts.
Team’s current struggles and outlook
The Blue Jays have struggled since the All-Star break, losing four of five games and being outscored 19-3 in two games against the AL-East-leading Rays. Schneider highlighted the difficulty of their current situation, stating, “It’s not going to be easy. This is going to be hard. You want to find some small wins, for one.” He stressed the need for everyone to understand the challenge ahead and to “dig your way out of this.”
Gausman echoed the sentiment of frustration within the team. “We’re all frustrated,” he said. “We know what this team can do and what it has done. Nobody wants to be in this situation that we’re in right now.” He noted the difficulty of the situation given that it involves the same group of players.
The team’s performance has led to speculation about whether the front office will become sellers at the trade deadline. The Blue Jays have two games remaining against the Rays before embarking on a road trip to Boston.
The team’s next turn for Gausman is scheduled for Sunday in Boston, followed by a home game against St. Louis on August 1.
Source: sportsnet.ca
