New development regarding $50 million extension for Kevin Gausman

Jan 29, 2026 (6:04 PM)

Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

We’re obsessed with the new toys, but the most important signature Ross Atkins needs to get is the one that keeps our ace in the 6ix.

Kevin Gausman is entering the final year of his deal, and the clock is ticking.

After a dominant five-year run where he became the heart and soul of the rotation, Gausman is set to hit free agency again after the 2026 season.

He turns 35 this year.

In baseball years, that usually screams "decline," but Gausman is aging like fine wine—or rather, like a Zack Wheeler fastball.

His splitter is still baffling hitters, and his velocity hasn't dipped.

The Blue Jays cannot afford to enter 2027 with a rotation anchored solely by kids like Trey Yesavage. They need a mentor. They need stability.

So, what does a fair extension look like?

We don't need to guess; the market has set the price for elite veteran arms.

Zack Wheeler signed a 3-year, $126 million extension at age 33 ($42M AAV).

Sonny Gray just reworked his deal to guarantee $31 million for his age-36 season.

Gausman isn't quite Wheeler, but he is certainly in the Sonny Gray tier of reliability and durability.

Here is the contract that makes sense:

Two years, $50 million (2027–2028).

This deal keeps him in Toronto through his age-37 season at a manageable $25M AAV.

It matches the market for top-tier veteran starters without committing to a terrifying long-term risk.

For Gausman, it gives him security and keeps him in a city where he is beloved.

For the Jays, it ensures the rotation transition from "Gausman & Co." to "Yesavage & Co." is smooth, not abrupt.

The alternative? Watching him walk to a contender next winter while we scramble to overpay a lesser pitcher.

Extend the Wizard. Keep the window open.

Previously on Toronto Baseball Insider

POLL
JANVIER 29\|292 ANSWERS New development regarding $50 million extension for Kevin Gausman Is a 2-year, $50M extension fair for a 36-year-old Kevin Gausman?
Yes	260	89 %
No	32	11 %
List of polls