Blue Jays' Kevin Gausman makes Toronto history on Opening Day

Gausman strikes out 11 batters in six innings in season opener against Athletics

Mar. 28, 2026 at 10:56am by Ben Kaplan

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Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Kevin Gausman made franchise history on Opening Day, striking out 11 batters over six innings in a 3-2 win over the Oakland Athletics. Gausman became the first Blue Jays pitcher to record at least 10 strikeouts in a season opener, surpassing the previous record of nine shared by Roy Halladay and Esteban Loaiza.

Why it matters

Gausman's dominant performance on Opening Day sets the tone for the Blue Jays' 2026 season as they look to defend their American League championship. His ability to overpower hitters with his mid-90s fastball, splitter, and slider will be crucial to the team's success throughout the year.

The details

Gausman struck out the first three batters he faced, becoming only the second Blue Jays starter to accomplish that feat. He carried a perfect game into the fourth inning and allowed just one run on one hit, a solo home run by Shea Langeliers. Gausman threw 83 pitches with a 72.3% strike rate and generated 17 swinging strikes.

  • Gausman struck out the first three batters he faced to open the game.
  • Gausman carried a perfect game into the fourth inning.
  • Gausman finished with 11 strikeouts over six innings of work.

The players

Kevin Gausman

A 35-year-old starting pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays who signed a five-year, $110 million contract with the team before the 2022 season. Gausman previously made Opening Day starts for the Baltimore Orioles in 2017 and San Francisco Giants in 2021.

Shea Langeliers

A 24-year-old catcher for the Oakland Athletics who hit two home runs in the game, including a game-tying shot in the ninth inning.

Andres Gimenez

The Toronto Blue Jays' third baseman who drove in all three runs for the team, including a walk-off single in the ninth inning.

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What they’re saying

“Kevin Gausman was absolutely dominant today. He set the tone early and kept us in the game throughout. This is the kind of performance we expect from him as our ace.”

— John Schneider, Toronto Blue Jays Manager

What’s next

The Blue Jays will look to build on Gausman's strong Opening Day start as they continue their series against the Athletics this weekend. The team will be hoping Gausman can carry this momentum throughout the season as they aim to defend their American League championship.

The takeaway

Gausman's historic performance on Opening Day showcases the Blue Jays' pitching depth and their ability to win close games, even when their offense is not at its best. The team will rely on Gausman's dominance throughout the season as they look to repeat as American League champions.