Kevin Gausman could actually make sense as a Blue Jays reunion this offseason.

Toronto traded him to the Cubs at this year's deadline for Brett Bateman and Ty Southisene, a deal that closed a memorable run as one of the better pitchers in franchise history over recent seasons.

Bateman turned into an immediate revelation for Toronto, becoming the everyday leadoff hitter and one of the few genuine bright spots in a disappointing season.

Gausman's own transition to Chicago had real ups and downs, including a rough patch through his first several starts and a hand cramp scare during his Wrigley Field debut, before eventually settling into form and delivering a dominant seven-inning shutout performance later in the season.

Why bringing him back could address a real need

Toronto's rotation depth collapsed multiple times this season, cycling through bullpen games and unproven arms behind Dylan Cease, Jose Soriano, and Trey Yesavage for stretches at a time.

Jose Berrios remains out until at least late 2027 recovering from Tommy John surgery, and Shane Bieber's own health concerns make him a genuinely risky bet to bring back.

Adding a proven veteran with real familiarity in Toronto's clubhouse and coaching staff could offer exactly the kind of stability this rotation has lacked all year.

GM Ross Atkins has a real track record signing established starters in free agency, and Gausman fits that same pattern as a known commodity rather than a reclamation project.

There's a real emotional and practical angle here too. Gausman and his wife made a nostalgic trip back to Toronto earlier this season during a Cubs off day, suggesting real lingering affection for the city even after the trade.

None of this guarantees a reunion actually happens. Chicago may want to keep him, and other teams will surely have interest in a starter with his track record on the open market.

But given Toronto's clear need for reliable rotation depth heading into 2027, and Gausman's own history of success in a Blue Jays uniform, this is exactly the kind of familiar name worth watching as free agency opens.