Cubs add veteran right-hander Kevin Gausman in exchange for two prospects

The Chicago Cubs have completed a trade for right-handed pitcher Kevin Gausman, sending Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Brett Bateman and infielder Ty Southisene in return. Gausman, a 35-year-old two-time All-Star, recorded a 4.38 ERA in 23 starts for Toronto this year and is entering the last season of a five-year, $110 million deal. In his most recent outing, he limited the St. Louis Cardinals to one run over 5 2/3 innings.

The Cubs, seeking to strengthen a rotation that also includes Jameson Taillon and the returning Edward Cabrera, hope Gausman's playoff experience will aid a deeper October run. Bateman, a 24-year-old center fielder ranked 21st in the Cubs' prospect list, posted a.312/.431/.422 line at Triple-A Iowa. Southisene, a 21-year-old infielder ranked 13th in the system, showed strong on-base skills at High-A South Bend but has yet to hit a home run. The transaction occurs ahead of the trade-deadline deadline at 6 p.m. ET on Monday.