The Chicago Cubs are rewarding their pitching staff for a standout 2026 season. The team has made deals to bring in right-hander Kevin Gausman and a player named Holmes, adding depth to a rotation that carried the club through last year.
The deals at a glance
Gausman, a veteran starter, joins the Cubs after spending the past few seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays. Holmes, whose full name and role haven't been detailed by the team, is also expected to contribute to the rotation. The moves signal that the front office sees the 2026 rotation as a foundation worth building on, rather than tearing down.
Why the rotation earned a reward
The Cubs' pitching staff was a bright spot in 2026, delivering consistent innings and keeping the team in contention deep into the summer. While the offense had its ups and downs, the rotation held its own against some of the league's best lineups. By adding Gausman and Holmes, the Cubs are betting that the group can replicate or improve on that performance.
Gausman brings a track record of durability and swing-and-miss stuff. He's been a reliable innings-eater, and his experience could help stabilize a young staff. Holmes, meanwhile, offers a different look — whether as a starter or a long reliever, he gives manager Craig Counsell more options.
What the new arms bring
Gausman's fastball and splitter have made him a tough matchup for hitters. He's posted solid strikeout rates and kept walks manageable. The Cubs are likely counting on him to slot into the middle of the rotation and take pressure off the younger arms.
Holmes is less established, but the Cubs clearly see potential. The deal suggests the front office believes he can contribute at the major league level, either immediately or after some development time. The team hasn't announced whether the moves involved trades or free-agent signings, but both players are expected to report to spring training.
The Cubs' rotation for 2027 now looks deeper than it did a month ago. With Gausman and Holmes in the mix, the team has more than five viable starters — a luxury that often pays off over a long season.
Spring training opens in Mesa, Arizona, in mid-February. That's when fans will get their first look at the revamped rotation.
