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Blue Jays “Horse of the Pitching Staff” Performing Like an Ace

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Toronto Blue Jays starter Kevin Gausman’s performance this season has been stellar, and he’s been pitching like an ace. In his most recent performance, he pitched a complete game and shut out the Houston Astros. In the past, Gausman struggled to receive run support, but that hasn’t been the case this season.

Kevin Gausman is using his fastball to get off to a better start than he had last season.
Apr 15, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Kevin Gausman (34) throws a pitch against the Atlanta Braves during the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

The Blue Jays won the series and finished with a 6-0 dominant performance. Gausman went the full nine innings, allowing only two hits, no earned runs, one walk, and nine strikeouts. In his last seven games, he’s also been solid with a 3-2 record, a 2.02 ERA, 44 strikeouts and a 0.79 WHIP.

Kevin Gausman Dominating in Ace-Like Fashion

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“Kevin Clutchman”

On the season, Gausman owns a 10-10 record with a 3.44 ERA. He has provided length, helping to give the bullpen some much-needed rest. He had a rough start to the season, but he’s been unreal the past couple of months.

Gausman definitely gets the first game when the postseason arrives. The Blue Jays needed Thursday’s victory in a big way and he put on a hell of a performance. He deserves the nickname “Kevin Clutchman,” as he’s without question been clutch.

Why Gausman Has Been So Dominant

The 34-year-old right-handed starter and veteran has cooked up a solid recipe for success as he has been in prime health, and has revamped his pitching mechanics in order to return to his reliable command of his pitches. This has allowed Gausman to pitch like an ace.

Overall, this has led to a noticeably improved performance in the second half of the season following a slow start. He has worked to mend a previous mechanical issue that led to unreliable command and a reduced strikeout rate.

The Blue Jays noticed a physical difference during spring training. Essentially, this improved his consistency, which has permitted him to adapt and progress with a successful run of solid starts. This enabled him to bounce back from a difficult 2024 season, where he dealt with right shoulder fatigue. 

Stronger and Sturdier

Gausman put on more weight and strength during the 2024-25 offseason. This provided him with a “sturdier” physique that he brought to 2025 Spring Training. This also adds to Gausman’s ace-like quality. 

No Shoulder Fatigue

Unlike last season, Gausman entered the 2025 season in good health and didn’t bring any lingering shoulder fatigue. What a difference a healthy Gausman makes compared to his down season in 2024.

Consistent Mechanics

A primary focus for Gausman in spring training was repeating his delivery, with a set goal of landing harder in front of the mound versus leaking towards first base. All in all, this helps with his control. 

Adapting in His Career

Manager John Schneider has talked about Gausman’s professionalism and expertise with adapting as he continues to gain more wisdom and get older. This has permitted him to make adjustments that have vastly helped him improve his game. 
Second-Half Success
After a slow start to the 2025 season, which was a switch of his usual pattern of starting strong and fading, Gausman has been consistently dominant in the second half of this season. His reliable presence has also made him a fan favorite.
Under the Radar, But Effective
While he isn’t always the most high-profile pitcher, Gausman has made it a habit of generating high-caliber results by changing his game, perplexing hitters and using his fastball and splitter combination effectively.
Main Photo Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

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