Kevin John Gausman (born January 6, 1991) is an American professional baseball pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays of Major League Baseball (MLB). Known for his powerful pitching and consistent performance, Gausman has previously played for the Baltimore Orioles, Atlanta Braves, Cincinnati Reds, and San Francisco Giants. A two-time All-Star and the 2023 American League strikeout leader, he has established himself as one of the premier pitchers in baseball.
Quick Facts of Kevin Gausman
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kevin John Gausman |
| Date of Birth | January 6, 1991 |
| Place of Birth | Centennial, Colorado, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Position | Pitcher |
| Bats / Throws | Left / Right |
| MLB Debut | May 23, 2013, Baltimore Orioles |
| Current Team | Toronto Blue Jays (2022–present) |
| Spouse | Taylor North |
| Children | Two daughters |
| Career Highlights | 2× All-Star (2021, 2023), AL Strikeout Leader (2023), 2× All-MLB Second Team (2021, 2023) |
Early Life and Education
Kevin Gausman grew up in Centennial, Colorado, and attended Grandview High School in Aurora. As a high school pitcher, he showed remarkable talent, posting a 5–2 record with a 2.79 ERA as a sophomore and improving to 9–2 with a 3.12 ERA in his senior year. At the plate, he hit .322 with seven home runs and 40 RBIs in his final season.
Although the Los Angeles Dodgers drafted him in 2010, Gausman chose not to sign and instead attended Louisiana State University (LSU). At LSU, he played for the Tigers and earned All-American honors in 2012. That year, he led the Southeastern Conference in wins (12) and strikeouts (135), while maintaining a 2.77 ERA. He also pitched in the Baton Rouge Super Regional, which he later described as a career-defining moment.
Professional Career
Draft and Minor Leagues
The Baltimore Orioles selected Gausman fourth overall in the 2012 MLB Draft, signing him for $4.32 million. He began his professional career with the Double-A Bowie Baysox in 2013 before earning a promotion to the majors.
Baltimore Orioles (2013–2018)
Gausman debuted in MLB on May 23, 2013, against the Toronto Blue Jays, pitching five innings and striking out five. He earned his first major league win on June 28, 2013, against the New York Yankees. Over the next several seasons, Gausman developed into a reliable starter, achieving career milestones such as his first complete game in 2014 and pitching eight scoreless innings in 2016.
In 2017, Gausman became the Orioles’ Opening Day starter for the first time. That season, he led the team with 34 starts, recording 179 strikeouts over 186+2⁄3 innings pitched. In 2018, he threw the 90th immaculate inning in MLB history, striking out three batters on nine pitches.
Atlanta Braves (2018–2019)
Gausman was traded to the Atlanta Braves on July 31, 2018. He faced challenges during the 2019 season due to a sore shoulder, finishing with a 3–7 record and 6.19 ERA in 16 starts before being designated for assignment in August.
Cincinnati Reds (2019)
The Reds claimed Gausman off waivers on August 5, 2019. Transitioning to a relief role, he struck out all six batters he faced on August 18, recording his second career immaculate inning. He finished the season 0–2 with a 4.03 ERA in 15 games.
San Francisco Giants (2020–2021)
Gausman signed a one-year, $9 million contract with the Giants in December 2019. In 2020, he had a career bounce-back season with a 3.62 ERA and a career-high 11.9 K/9. In 2021, he earned National League All-Star honors and finished the season 14–6 with a 2.81 ERA and 227 strikeouts over 192 innings.
Toronto Blue Jays (2022–Present)
Gausman signed a five-year, $110 million contract with the Blue Jays on December 1, 2021. In 2023, he led the AL with 237 strikeouts and posted a 3.16 ERA over 185 innings. On September 12, 2025, Gausman pitched a complete game shutout against the Houston Astros, striking out nine batters while allowing just two hits.
Pitching Style
Gausman primarily throws a four-seam fastball (94–95 mph), a splitter (84–86 mph), and a slider (80–84 mph). Occasionally, he also uses a sinker and changeup. In 2020, he increased velocity and spin rate by adjusting his delivery mechanics, leading to improved performance and strikeout rates.
Personal Life
Kevin Gausman married Taylor North in December 2016. The couple has two daughters. Gausman grew up a Colorado Rockies fan and is the son of former college football official Clair Gausman. He enjoys family life and is known for his disciplined approach to baseball and his philanthropic efforts.
