Chad Gaudin

{{Infobox baseball biography

|name = Chad Gaudin

|image = Chadgaudin2013.JPG

|image_size = 250

|caption = Gaudin with the San Francisco Giants

|team =

|number =

|position = Pitcher

|birth_date = {{birth date and age|1983|3|24}}

|birth_place = New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.

|bats = Right

|throws = Right

|debutleague = MLB

|debutdate = August 1

|debutyear = 2003

|debutteam = Tampa Bay Devil Rays

|finalleague = MLB

|finaldate = August 16

|finalyear = 2013

|finalteam = San Francisco Giants

|statleague = MLB

|stat1label = Win–loss record

|stat1value = 45–44

|stat2label = Earned run average

|stat2value = 4.44

|stat3label = Strikeouts

|stat3value = 673

|teams =

Tampa Bay Devil Rays ({{mlby|2003}}–{{mlby|2004}})
Toronto Blue Jays ({{mlby|2005}})
Oakland Athletics ({{mlby|2006}}–{{mlby|2008}})
Chicago Cubs ({{mlby|2008}})
San Diego Padres ({{mlby|2009}})
New York Yankees ({{mlby|2009}})
Oakland Athletics ({{mlby|2010}})
New York Yankees ({{mlby|2010}})
Washington Nationals ({{mlby|2011}})
Miami Marlins ({{mlby|2012}})
San Francisco Giants ({{mlby|2013}})

|highlights =

World Series champion ({{wsy|2009}})

}}

Chad Edward Gaudin ({{IPAc-en|ɡ|oʊ|ˈ|d|æ|n}}; born March 24, 1983) is a former American professional baseball pitcher. He has been used as both a starting pitcher and a reliever throughout his career, functioning as a "swingman."

Gaudin has pitched in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, Toronto Blue Jays, Oakland Athletics, Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres, New York Yankees, Washington Nationals, Miami Marlins, and San Francisco Giants.

High school

Gaudin attended Crescent City Baptist High School in Metairie, Louisiana. He earned All-State and district MVP in his junior and senior years.{{Cite web |date=January 4, 2012 |title=Marlins Sign Metairie's Chad Gaudin |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/marlins-sign-metairies-chad-gaudin/n-4338049 |access-date=January 9, 2024 |website=OurSports Central |language=en}} He committed to Louisiana State University in November 2000.{{Cite web |date=November 16, 2000 |title=Baseball Signs 14 More Players, Five For 2001 |url=https://lsusports.net/news/2000/11/16/160190/ |access-date=January 9, 2024 |website=LSU |language=en-US}} In 2001, he struck out 203 batters in 89 innings to win The Times-Picayune Player of the Year honors.{{Cite web |last=Gammons |first=Peter |date=June 2, 2001 |title=Baseball draft so unpredictable |url=https://www.espn.com/gammons/s/2001/0602/1208718.html |access-date=January 9, 2024 |website=ESPN}}{{Cite web |last=Times-Picayune |first=Jim Derry, NOLA com {{!}} The |date=May 25, 2018 |title=2018 NOLA.com {{!}} The Times-Picayune All-Metro Baseball Team and past winners |url=https://www.nola.com/archive/2018-nola-com-the-times-picayune-all-metro-baseball-team-and-past-winners/article_ad518878-982c-5e64-8f1c-7ff951c63c81.html |access-date=January 9, 2024 |website=NOLA.com |language=en}}

Professional career

=Tampa Bay Devil Rays=

Gaudin was selected by the Tampa Bay Devil Rays out of high school in the 34th round (1009th overall pick) of the 2001 Major League Baseball Draft.{{Cite web |title=2001 Tampa Bay Devil Rays Draft Class - The Baseball Cube |url=https://www.thebaseballcube.com/content/draft_class/2001~28/ |access-date=January 9, 2024 |website=TheBaseballCube.com |language=en}} He signed on August 23, 2001, and did not play professionally until 2002.{{Cite web |last=Normandin |first=Marc |date=June 27, 2007 |title=Player Profile: Chad Gaudin |url=https://www.baseballprospectus.com/news/article/6394/player-profile-chad-gaudin/ |access-date=January 9, 2024 |website=Baseball Prospectus}} That year, he maintained a 2.26 ERA in 119.1 innings as a starter and reliever for the Single-A Charleston RiverDogs.

Before the 2003 season, Baseball America ranked him as the 20th best prospect in the Devil Rays system. He worked 14 games as a started for the Bakersfield Blaze in High-A before making it up to Double-A. On July 15, in his first start for the Orlando Rays, Gaudin pitched a seven-inning perfect game in the first half of a doubleheader. On the road against the Jacksonville Suns, he struck out nine batters on just 78 pitches, retiring all 21 batters he faced.{{Cite web |date=July 15, 2003 |title=Tuesday roundup: Rays prospect is perfect |url=https://a.espncdn.com/mlb/news/2003/0715/1580981.html |access-date=January 9, 2024 |website=ESPN}} (Two 7-inning games is the standard for a doubleheader in most minor leagues; Major League Baseball would later amend a rule recognizing only efforts of at least nine innings as official perfect games.) Gaudin made only two more starts and posted an 0.47 ERA for Orlando before the Devil Rays called him up to the majors.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=August 5, 2003 |title=Better buy a program |url=https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/2003/08/05/better-buy-a-program/28759462007/ |access-date=January 9, 2024 |website=Sarasota Herald-Tribune |language=en-US}}

Gaudin made his major league debut on August 1, allowing one run in 2.1 innings against the Kansas City Royals that day.{{Cite web |title=Devil Rays 9-6 Royals (Aug 1, 2003) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/230801107 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240109150248/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/230801107 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 9, 2024 |access-date=January 9, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}} At the time of his debut, he was 20 years and 130 days, making him the youngest Devil Ray to debut to that point.{{Cite web |last=Berry |first=Adam |title=Where's Franco fall in youngest Rays debuts? |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/rays-youngest-players-to-debut-in-mlb |access-date=January 10, 2024 |website=MLB.com |language=en}} He posted a very respectable 2–0 record and 3.60 ERA in 15 appearances (including three starts) in 2003 for the Devil Rays.

In 2004, Devil Rays manager Lou Piniella used Gaudin out of the bullpen in order to face tough right-handed batters. He made four starts in the month of June, including a start on June 22 where he walked four in the first inning before being pulled.{{Cite web |last=MAFFEZZOLI |first=DENNIS |title=Marlins salvage finale with D-Rays |url=https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/2004/06/28/marlins-salvage-finale-with-d-rays/28812980007/ |access-date=January 10, 2024 |website=Sarasota Herald-Tribune |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=Chad Gaudin 2004 Pitching Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=gaudich01&t=p&year=2004 |access-date=January 10, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}} Overall, Gaudin went 1–2 with a 4.85 ERA in 26 appearances while splitting time with the Triple-A Durham Bulls.

=Toronto Blue Jays=

On December 12, 2004, Gaudin was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays for backup catcher Kevin Cash.{{cite news|title=Minor-league pitcher goes to Toronto|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=1944972|access-date=February 26, 2015|agency=Associated Press|work=ESPN.com|date=December 12, 2004}} He spent most of the season with the Syracuse SkyChiefs in Triple-A, posting a 9–8 record with a 3.35 ERA in 150.1 innings. In five appearances (three starts) with the Blue Jays, he was just 1–3 while allowing 19 runs on 31 hits (six home runs) in 13 innings.{{Cite web |title=Chad Gaudin 2005 Pitching Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=gaudich01&t=p&year=2005 |access-date=January 10, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}

=Oakland Athletics=

On December 5, 2005, he was traded to the Oakland Athletics for a player to be named later, who later turned out to be outfielder Dustin Majewski.{{cite news |date=December 8, 2008 |title=A's send minor league OF Dustin Majewski to Toronto |url=http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20051208&content_id=1279344&vkey=pr_oak&fext=.jsp&c_id=oak |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227000635/http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20051208&content_id=1279344&vkey=pr_oak&fext=.jsp&c_id=oak |archive-date=February 27, 2015 |accessdate=January 10, 2024 |work=MLB.com}}

File:Gaudin2SEA.jpg in 2006.]]

Gaudin began the 2006 season in Triple-A with the Sacramento River Cats. He posted a 0.36 ERA in 4 starts for the River Cats and was promoted to the majors on April 21 to pitch out of the bullpen.{{Cite web |date=April 22, 2006 |title=A's bring up Gaudin to boost ailing bullpen |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/wire?section=mlb&id=2417393 |access-date=January 10, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} He pitched in relief for the rest of the season with the Athletics, posting a 3.09 ERA in 64 innings.

In 2007, Gaudin was put in the rotation when veteran Esteban Loaiza started the season on the disabled list.{{Cite news |agency=Associated Press |date=July 15, 2007 |title=Fill-Ins Keep Oakland Primed for Typical Surge |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/15/sports/baseball/15oakland.html |access-date=January 11, 2024 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} He pitched to a 2.88 ERA in the first half of the season. On June 30, he and Rich Harden threw a one-hitter against the New York Yankees.{{Cite web |title=Athletics 7-0 Yankees (Jun 30, 2007) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/270630110 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111140717/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/270630110 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 11, 2024 |access-date=January 11, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}} His excellent performance as a starter resulted in the media considering him part of the new 'Big Three' that included Dan Haren and Joe Blanton.{{Cite web |last=Berra |first=Lindsay |date=July 30, 2007 |title=Dan Haren's not as tranquil as he looks |url=https://www.espn.com/espnmag/story?id=3620272 |access-date=January 11, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} However, Gaudin had a 6.30 ERA after the All-Star break.{{Cite web |title=Chad Gaudin 2007 Pitching Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=gaudich01&t=p&year=2007 |access-date=January 11, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}

In December 2007, Gaudin underwent surgery to repair a labrum tear in his hip and remove the sesamoid bone in his right big toe.{{Cite web |date=March 4, 2016 |title=A's RHP Chad Gaudin to undergo surgery |url=http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20071215&content_id=2327510&vkey=pr_oak&fext=.jsp&c_id=oak |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304023525/http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20071215&content_id=2327510&vkey=pr_oak&fext=.jsp&c_id=oak |url-status=dead |archive-date=2016-03-04 |access-date=January 11, 2024 |website=MLB.com}}{{cite news|last1=Haft|first1=Chris|title=Oakland signs Gaudin to one-year deal|url=http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080125&content_id=2355803&vkey=news_oak&fext=.jsp&c_id=oak|accessdate=June 25, 2014|work=MLB.com|date=January 25, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024083502/http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080125&content_id=2355803&vkey=news_oak&c_id=oak&fext=.jsp|archive-date=October 24, 2012|url-status=dead}} He returned to pitching again by March 2008, putting him just two weeks behind the other pitchers.{{Cite web |last=Slusser |first=Susan |date=March 2, 2008 |title=Gaudin throws hard, but won't push it |url=https://www.sfgate.com/sports/article/Gaudin-throws-hard-but-won-t-push-it-3224162.php |website=SFGate}} However, he ultimately started the season on the disabled list and was due to miss additional time before a rash of injuries forced the A's to activate Gaudin a week early. He posted a 3.75 ERA through six starts, but was moved to the bullpen, on May 7, in favor of Rich Harden.{{cite news |author=Urban |first=Mychael |date=May 7, 2008 |title=The Official Site of The Oakland Athletics: News: Gaudin to 'pen to make room for Harden |url=http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080507&content_id=2656845&vkey=news_oak&fext=.jsp&c_id=oak |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120318031226/http://oakland.athletics.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20080507&content_id=2656845&vkey=news_oak&fext=.jsp&c_id=oak |archive-date=March 18, 2012 |accessdate=August 22, 2010 |publisher=Oakland.athletics.mlb.com }} He then held a 3.38 ERA in 26.2 innings as a reliever.{{Cite web |title=Chad Gaudin 2008 Pitching Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=gaudich01&t=p&year=2008 |access-date=January 11, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}

=Chicago Cubs=

File:Chad Gaudin to the plate.jpg in 2008.]]

On July 8, 2008, Gaudin was dealt, along with Rich Harden, to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for Sean Gallagher, Matt Murton, Eric Patterson, and minor league catcher Josh Donaldson.{{cite news|title=Cubs trade four players to A's for pitchers Harden, Gaudin|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=3478902|access-date=June 25, 2014|work=ESPN.com|date=July 8, 2008}}

Despite posting a 4-2 record, Gaudin pitched poorly for the Cubs, pitching to a 6.26 ERA in 27.1 innings. He missed several weeks to a sore back between August and September.{{Cite web |last=Van Dyck |first=Dave |date=September 6, 2008 |title=Cotts still feels tug of Sox ties |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-xpm-2008-09-06-0809050764-story.html |access-date=January 11, 2024 |website=Chicago Tribune}} Gaudin was released by the Cubs on April 5, 2009, after he pitched poorly in spring training.{{cite news |last1=Paul |first1=Sullivan |date=April 6, 2009 |title=Chicago Cubs release pitcher Chad Gaudin |url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2009-04-06/sports/0904050241_1_general-manager-jim-hendry-cubs-nice-ballpark |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227003219/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2009-04-06/sports/0904050241_1_general-manager-jim-hendry-cubs-nice-ballpark |archive-date=February 27, 2015 |accessdate=February 26, 2015 |work=Chicago Tribune}}

=San Diego Padres=

File:Chad Gaudin on July 21, 2009.jpg in 2009.]]

The San Diego Padres signed him to a minor league contract on April 12.{{cite news |last1=Brock |first1=Corey |date=April 12, 2009 |title=Padres sign reliever Gaudin |url=http://m.mlb.com/news/article/4232024/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227004941/http://m.mlb.com/news/article/4232024/ |archive-date=February 27, 2015 |accessdate=February 26, 2015 |work=MLB.com}} He was assigned to their Triple-A team, the Portland Beavers on April 14.{{Cite web |date=May 8, 2009 |title=Gaudin added to roster, will start Saturday at PGE Park |url=http://portlandbeavers.com/news/press/index.html?article_id=1398 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090508044500/http://portlandbeavers.com/news/press/index.html?article_id=1398 |url-status=dead |archive-date=2009-05-08 |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=Portlandbeavers.com}} After two starts with the Beavers, he was called up to the majors to start against the Colorado Rockies on April 28. He allowed three hits and four walks while striking out five over five innings in a 4–3 Padres win.{{Cite web |title=Padres 4-3 Rockies (Apr 28, 2009) Game Recap |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/290428127 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112011958/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/290428127 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 12, 2024 |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=ESPN |language=en}} He was named National League Player of the Week, alongside Hanley Ramirez, for the week of June 28 after allowing just two runs and striking out 20 in 15 innings over two starts.{{Cite web |title=Ramirez, Gaudin share NL Player of Week - UPI.com |url=https://www.upi.com/Sports_News/2009/06/29/Ramirez-Gaudin-share-NL-Player-of-Week/41091246326305/ |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=UPI |language=en}} Through 19 starts and 1 relief appearance, Gaudin was 4-10 with a 5.13 ERA and 105 strikeouts in 105.1 innings pitched.

=New York Yankees=

On August 6, 2009, Gaudin was traded to the New York Yankees for a player to be named later.{{Cite web |last=DiComo |first=Anthony |date=August 7, 2009 |title=Yanks add depth by acquiring Gaudin {{!}} MLB.com: News |url=https://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090806&content_id=6290874&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120619174251/https://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090806&content_id=6290874&vkey=news_mlb&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb |url-status=dead |archive-date=2012-06-19|access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=MLB.com}} The Padres later agreed to cash considerations, believe to be $100,000.{{cite news|url=http://coreybrock.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/08/padres_gets_cash_for_gaudin.html|title=Who's your Padre?: Padres get cash for Gaudin|publisher=Coreybrock.mlblogs.com|accessdate=August 22, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090826152036/http://coreybrock.mlblogs.com/archives/2009/08/padres_gets_cash_for_gaudin.html|archive-date=August 26, 2009}} With the Yankees, Gaudin filled a valuable role as a spot starter and relief pitcher. He recorded a 3.43 ERA, making six starts and five relief appearances.{{cite news|url=http://www.tampabay.com/sports/baseball/ml/ex-tampa-bay-ray-chad-gaudin-lands-on-his-feet-with-new-york-yankeespp/1048692|title=Ex-Tampa Bay Ray Chad Gaudin Lands on His Feet With New York Yankees|first=Marc|last=Topkin|work=TampaBay.com|publisher=St. Petersburg Times|date=November 1, 2009|accessdate=November 2, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091105031001/http://www.tampabay.com/sports/baseball/ml/ex-tampa-bay-ray-chad-gaudin-lands-on-his-feet-with-new-york-yankeespp/1048692|archive-date=November 5, 2009|url-status=dead}} Gaudin was included on the Yankees postseason roster.{{Cite web |last=Carig |first=Marc |date=October 7, 2009 |title=NY Yankees release postseason roster |url=https://www.nj.com/yankees/2009/10/ny_yankees_release_postseason.html |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=The Star-Ledger |language=en}} He received a championship ring after the Yankees won the 2009 World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies.{{cite news|title=Gaudin, Ramirez get World Series rings|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=5120372|access-date=June 25, 2014|agency=Associated Press|work=ESPN.com|date=April 20, 2010}}{{cite news|last1=Carig|first1=Marc|title=Yankees deliver World Series rings to Chad Gaudin, Edwar Ramirez|url=http://www.nj.com/yankees/index.ssf/2010/04/yankees_deliver_world_series_r.html|accessdate=June 25, 2014|work=The Star-Ledger|publisher=NJ.com|date=April 20, 2010}}

Gaudin entered spring training in 2010 as a contender for the fifth spot in the rotation. He was released by the Yankees on March 25, after Phil Hughes won the fifth starter role.{{cite news|title=Yankees release RHP Chad Gaudin|url=http://www.sportingnews.com/mlb/story/2010-03-25/yankees-release-rhp-chad-gaudin|accessdate=June 25, 2014|publisher=Sporting News|date=March 25, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20140625152630/http://www.sportingnews.com/mlb/story/2010-03-25/yankees-release-rhp-chad-gaudin|archive-date=June 25, 2014}}{{Cite web |last=Hale |first=Mark |date=March 25, 2010 |title=Yankees release Gaudin; A-Rod still quiet |url=https://nypost.com/2010/03/25/yankees-release-gaudin-a-rod-still-quiet/ |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=New York Post |language=en-US}}

=Oakland Athletics (second stint)=

On March 28, 2010, Gaudin signed a major league deal with the Oakland Athletics.{{cite news |last=Rosenthal |first=Ken |author-link=Ken Rosenthal |date=March 28, 2010 |title=Gaudin signs new deal with A's |url=http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/chad-gaudin-signs-new-deal-with-as-032810 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100331211605/http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/chad-gaudin-signs-new-deal-with-as-032810 |archive-date=March 31, 2010 |accessdate=March 28, 2010 |work=FOX Sports}} He allowed 17 earned runs on 27 hits over 17.1 innings out of the bullpen and was designated for assignment on May 17.{{Cite web |last=Trahan |first=Ken |date=July 22, 2011 |title=Oakland designates Chad Gaudin for assignment |url=http://www.sportsnola.com/sports/local-sports-news/630-prep-sports/395426-oakland-designates-chad-gaudin-for-assignment.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722025921/http://www.sportsnola.com/sports/local-sports-news/630-prep-sports/395426-oakland-designates-chad-gaudin-for-assignment.html |url-status=usurped |archive-date=2011-07-22 |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=SportsNOLA.com}} Gaudin was released on May 21.{{cite news |last1=Gonzalez |first1=Alden |date=May 21, 2010 |title=A's send Ramirez to Triple-A, release Gaudin |url=http://m.athletics.mlb.com/news/article/10280646/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227002411/http://m.athletics.mlb.com/news/article/10280646/ |archive-date=February 27, 2015 |accessdate=February 26, 2015 |work=MLB.com}}

=New York Yankees (second stint)=

On May 26, 2010, Gaudin re-signed with the Yankees to serve as a long reliever while Alfredo Aceves remained on the disabled list.{{cite news |last=Feinsand |first=Mark |date=May 26, 2010 |title=Source: New York Yankees bring back Chad Gaudin, plan to add righty to bullpen as long reliever |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/yankees/2010/05/26/2010-05-26_yankees_bring_back_gaudin.html#ixzz0p3NPsMQs |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528113810/http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/yankees/2010/05/26/2010-05-26_yankees_bring_back_gaudin.html#ixzz0p3NPsMQs |archive-date=May 28, 2010 |accessdate=May 26, 2010 |work=New York Daily News}} He pitched in 30 games with a 1-2 record and a 4.50 ERA. Gaudin was ultimately left off the Yankees playoff roster.{{Cite web |last=O'Leary |first=Daniel |date=October 5, 2010 |title=New York Yankees 2010 American League Division Series roster is announced, Javier Vazquez, Ivan Nova, Chad Gaudin left off |url=https://www.silive.com/yankees/2010/10/new_york_yankees_2010_american.html |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=silive |language=en}} On November 2, he was outrighted to the minor leagues and elected free agency.{{cite web |last=Blum |first=Ronald |title=MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL: Yankees finish meetings, prepare for Lee chase – saratogian.com |url=http://saratogian.com/articles/2010/11/03/sports/doc4cd222c677793648632601.txt |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120310081439/http://saratogian.com/articles/2010/11/03/sports/doc4cd222c677793648632601.txt |archive-date=March 10, 2012 |access-date=December 18, 2010}}

=Washington Nationals=

File:IMG 3168 Chad Gaudin.jpg.]]

On December 17, Gaudin signed a minor-league contract with the Washington Nationals.{{cite news |last=Kilgore |first=Adam |date=December 17, 2010 |title=Pitcher Chad Gaudin agrees to minor-league contract |url=http://voices.washingtonpost.com/nationalsjournal/2010/12/pitcher_chad_gaudin_agrees_to.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121009011308/http://voices.washingtonpost.com/nationalsjournal/2010/12/pitcher_chad_gaudin_agrees_to.html |archive-date=October 9, 2012 |newspaper=The Washington Post}} He was included on the team's opening day roster.{{Cite web |last=Prada |first=Mike |date=March 28, 2011 |title=Nationals' 2011 Roster Finalized With Alberto Gonzalez Trade To Padres |url=https://dc.sbnation.com/washington-nationals/2011/3/28/2077423/nationals-2011-roster-alberto-gonzalez-trade |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=SB Nation DC |language=en}} Gaudin made 10 appearances for the Nationals, recording a 6.48 ERA in {{fraction|8|1|3}} innings before hitting the disabled list with shoulder inflammation on April 27.{{Cite web |date=April 27, 2011 |title=Nationals put Gaudin on DL, reinstate Rodriguez |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=6438677 |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}} He was designated for assignment on July 19{{cite news |date=July 19, 2011 |title=RHP Chad Gaudin reinstated from DL & designated for assignment |url=http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20110719&content_id=21998146&vkey=pr_was&fext=.jsp&c_id=was |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227002142/http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20110719&content_id=21998146&vkey=pr_was&fext=.jsp&c_id=was |archive-date=February 27, 2015 |accessdate=February 26, 2015 |work=MLB.com}} and released on July 21.{{cite news|title=Nationals release reliever Chad Gaudin|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/6791059/washington-nationals-release-reliever-chad-gaudin|access-date=February 26, 2015|agency=Associated Press|work=ESPN.com|date=July 21, 2011}}

=Toronto Blue Jays (second stint)=

Gaudin signed a minor league contract with the Toronto Blue Jays on August 5.{{Cite web |last=Eddy |first=Matt |date=November 25, 2011 |title=Minor League Transactions: July 27-Aug. 2 |url=http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/2011/08/minor-league-transactions-july-27-aug-2/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111125163021/http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/2011/08/minor-league-transactions-july-27-aug-2/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=2011-11-25 |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=Baseball America}} He went 2–3 with a 6.14 ERA in six starts for the Las Vegas 51s in Triple-A.{{Cite web |title=2011 Las Vegas 51s Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}} He elected free agency on November 2.

=Miami Marlins=

File:Chad Gaudin Marlins (1).jpg]]

On January 4, 2012, Gaudin signed a minor league contract with the Miami Marlins and received an invite to spring training.{{cite news |date=January 4, 2012 |title=Pitcher Chad Gaudin joins Marlins |url=http://newsok.com/pitcher-chad-gaudin-joins-marlins/article/feed/332551 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227010634/http://newsok.com/pitcher-chad-gaudin-joins-marlins/article/feed/332551 |archive-date=February 27, 2015 |accessdate= |work=The Oklahoman |agency=Associated Press}} He was included on the team's opening day roster and spent the year in the bullpen as the team's long reliever.{{Cite web |date=April 4, 2012 |title=Marlins Announce 25-Man Roster |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/marlins-announce-25-man-roster/c-27898082 |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=MLB.com |language=en}} He finished the year with a 4.45 ERA in 69.1 innings across 46 appearances. He became a free agent after the season.

=San Francisco Giants=

Gaudin signed a minor league deal with the San Francisco Giants on December 13, 2012.{{cite news|title=Giants sign right-hander Chad Gaudin to minor league contract|url=http://www.csnphilly.com/article/giants-sign-right-hander-chad-gaudin-minor-league-contract|accessdate=February 26, 2015|work=Comcast SportsNet Philadelphia|date=December 13, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150227020715/http://www.csnphilly.com/article/giants-sign-right-hander-chad-gaudin-minor-league-contract|archive-date=February 27, 2015}} On March 26, 2013, it was reported that Gaudin had his contract purchased and had been added to the Major League roster as the final piece of the bullpen.{{cite news|title=Chad Gaudin makes Giants' roster|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/spring2013/story/_/id/9100790/san-francisco-giants-put-rhp-chad-gaudin-major-league-roster|access-date=February 26, 2015|agency=Associated Press|work=ESPN.com|date=March 26, 2013}} The San Jose Mercury News reported that "Gaudin will be the long man and a swing man of sorts, capable of pitching several innings at a time or even spot-starting."{{cite web|last=Pavlovic|first=Alex|title=San Francisco Giants to add reliever Chad Gaudin to roster|url=http://www.mercurynews.com/giants/ci_22875048/san-francisco-giants-add-reliever-chad-gaudin-roster|work=San Jose Mercury News|accessdate=April 4, 2013|date=March 26, 2013}}

Gaudin pitched to a 2.05 ERA in 30.2 innings out of the bullpen through the end of May. He was then put into the rotation to replace an injured Ryan Vogelsong.{{Cite web |last=McCAULEY |first=JANIE |date=July 20, 2013 |title=Chad Gaudin delivers as Giants beat Diamondbacks |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sdut-chad-gaudin-delivers-as-giants-beat-diamondbacks-2013jul19-story.html |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=San Diego Union-Tribune |language=en-US}} After four starts in June, Gaudin was placed on the disabled list after he was hit in the elbow with a batted ball on June 20.{{Cite web |title=Giants activate Gaudin off 15-day DL |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/giants-activate-gaudin-off-15-day-dl/ |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=www.sportsnet.ca |language=en}} His season ended prematurely when he was again placed on the disabled list on August 20 with carpal tunnel syndrome.{{Cite web |last=Haft |first=Chris |date=August 20, 2013 |title=Carpal tunnel sends Gaudin to disabled list |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/carpal-tunnel-sends-giants-chad-gaudin-to-disabled-list/c-57695086 |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=MLB.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Rotowire |date=September 21, 2013 |title=Chad Gaudin News: Gaudin (carpal tunnel syndrome) is doubtful to return this season, MLB.com reports. |url=https://www.thescore.com/mlb/news/297529 |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=theScore.com |language=en}} Overall, he made 12 starts for the Giants, finishing with a 5–2 record and 3.06 ERA, while striking out 88 batters in 97 innings.

=Philadelphia Phillies=

Gaudin signed a minor league deal with the Philadelphia Phillies on January 21, 2014.{{cite news|title=Chad Gaudin signs with Phillies|url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/10327871/chad-gaudin-signs-minor-league-deal-philadelphia-phillies|access-date=February 26, 2015|agency=Associated Press|publisher=ESPN.coml|date=January 21, 2014}} The Phillies released him on February 13 when he failed a physical.{{cite news|last1=Zolecki|first1=Todd|title=Phillies release veteran right-hander Gaudin|url=http://m.phillies.mlb.com/news/article/67725106/phillies-release-veteran-pitcher-chad-gaudin|accessdate=February 26, 2015|work=MLB.com|date=February 13, 2014|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304052549/http://m.phillies.mlb.com/news/article/67725106/phillies-release-veteran-pitcher-chad-gaudin|url-status=dead}} Gaudin underwent a procedure to relieve pressure on a nerve in his neck and missed the entire 2014 season.

=Los Angeles Dodgers=

On February 25, 2015, Gaudin signed a minor league contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.{{cite web|url=http://hardballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/02/25/dodgers-sign-chad-gaudin/|title=Dodgers sign Chad Gaudin|last=Gleeman|first=Aaron|work=hardballtalk.nbcsports.com|date=February 25, 2015|accessdate=February 25, 2015}}{{cite news|last1=Gurnick|first1=Ken|title=Veteran right-hander Gaudin in camp with Dodgers|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/110371186/chad-gaudin-in-dodgers-camp|accessdate=February 26, 2015|work=MLB.com|date=February 25, 2015|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303235717/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/110371186/chad-gaudin-in-dodgers-camp|url-status=dead}} He battled a recurring bout of nerve irritation during spring training and did not make the club, instead he was shut down for a period to recover.{{cite web|url=http://www.truebluela.com/2015/3/31/8322643/chad-gaudin-neck-nerve-irritation-dodgers|title=Chad Gaudin has neck nerve irritation, will stay behind in Arizona|first=Eric|last=Stephen|work=truebluela|date=March 31, 2015}} He wound up undergoing carpal tunnel release surgery and spent the entire season rehabbing in Arizona.{{cite web|url=http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/126632534/dodgers-chad-gaudin-could-return-in-a-month|title=Gaudin nears return from wrist surgery|work=mlb.com|first=Ken|last=Gurnick|date=May 25, 2015|accessdate=May 25, 2015|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303235755/http://m.dodgers.mlb.com/news/article/126632534/dodgers-chad-gaudin-could-return-in-a-month|url-status=dead}} He elected free agency on November 6.

=Pericos de Puebla=

On April 1, 2016, Gaudin signed with the Pericos de Puebla of the Mexican Baseball League (LMB). He served as the team's closer, pitching to a 1.64 ERA with 33 saves—a team record{{Cite web |date=April 18, 2023 |title=EL CANDADO VERDE |url=https://www.pericosdepuebla.com/post/el-candado-verde |access-date=January 13, 2024 |website=Pericos de Puebla |language=es}}—in 44 innings.{{Cite web |title=2016 Pericos de Puebla Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}} He saved seven more games in the playoffs{{Cite web |last=Puebla |first=Pericos de |date=September 21, 2023 |title=LA RESACA DE LA POSTEMPORADA |url=https://www.pericosdepuebla.com/post/la-resaca-de-la-postemporada |access-date=January 13, 2024 |website=Pericos de Puebla |language=es}} and was on the mound when the Pericos won the Mexican League Championship Series.{{Cite web |date=September 15, 2016 |title=Blackley, Pericos Shut out Tijuana, 2-0, to Clinch LMB Pennant |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/blackley-pericos-shut-out-tijuana-2-0-to-clinch-lmb-pennant/n-5203871 |access-date=January 12, 2024 |website=OurSports Central |language=en}}

=Acereros de Monclova=

On February 21, 2017, Gaudin, along with Daric Barton, Manny Rodriguez, Nyjer Morgan, Rodolfo Amador, and Willy Taveras were traded to the Acereros de Monclova in exchange for RHP Joaquín Lara. Gaudin maintained a 2.93 ERA with 29 saves in 43 innings and was an All-Star.{{Cite web |title=2017 Acereros de Monclova Statistics |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/team.cgi |access-date=January 13, 2024 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Chad Gaudin Stats, Age, Position, Height, Weight, Fantasy & News |url=https://www.milb.com/player/chad-gaudin-429985 |access-date=January 13, 2024 |website=Minor League Baseball |language=en}} He was released on April 14, 2018.{{Cite web |title=Chad Gaudin Player Card {{!}} Baseball Prospectus |url=https://www.baseballprospectus.com/player/35922/chad-gaudin/ |access-date=January 13, 2024 |website=www.baseballprospectus.com}}

=Leones de Yucatán=

On April 23, 2018, Gaudin signed with the Leones de Yucatán of the Mexican Baseball League. He was part of the team's championship run that year where he appeared in 22 games 23.2 inning of relief going 1-2 with a 3.04 ERA with 15 strikeouts and 12 saves.{{Cite web |date=June 29, 2018 |title=Leones de Yucatán: 2018 Mexican Baseball League Champions! - The Yucatan Times |work=The Yucatan Times - Yucatan News, Politics, Economics and more. |url=https://www.theyucatantimes.com/2018/06/leones-de-yucatan-2018-mexican-baseball-league-champions/ |access-date=January 13, 2024 |language=en-US |last1=Times |first1=Yucatan }} In 2019, he missed time due to a back injury and appeared in 12 games 14.2 innings of relief going 1-1 with a 4.91 ERA with 10 strikeouts and 4 saves.{{Cite web |last=Magazine |first=Yucatán |date=June 29, 2019 |title=Leones add former Mariners, Rays pitcher Josh Lueke to its roster |url=https://yucatanmagazine.com/leones-add-former-mariners-rays-pitcher-josh-lueke-to-its-roster/ |access-date=January 13, 2024 |website=Yucatán Magazine |language=en-US}} He was released on January 11, 2020.

Pitching style

Gaudin works with four pitches. His main one is a four-seam fastball at 90–93 mph. He also has a two-seamer at 89–92, a slider at 79–82, and a changeup at 86–89. His slider is mainly used against right-handed hitters (especially with two strikes), while his changeup is used almost exclusively against lefties.{{Cite web |title=Player Card: Chad Gaudin |url=https://www.brooksbaseball.net/tabs.php?player=429985&p_hand=-1&ppos=-1&cn=200&compType=none&risp=0&1b=0&2b=0&3b=0&rType=perc&gFilt=&time=month&minmax=ci&var=traj&s_type=2&endDate=01/07/2024&startDate=03/01/2003 |access-date=January 7, 2024 |website=www.brooksbaseball.net}} Gaudin was known for his impressive slider, which he initially learned to throw in Little League.{{Cite web |last=Olney |first=Buster |date=April 20, 2004 |title=Devilishly effective pitch |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=olney_buster&id=1786067 |access-date=January 7, 2024 |website=ESPN.com |language=en}}

Personal life

Gaudin is married to Syndal Gorden since January 29, 2011.{{cite web|url=http://www.bellableubridal.com/wedding-blog/couture-boutique-bridal-appointment/chad-and-syndal/|title=A Home Run Wedding in Vegas: Chad + Syndal|year=2011|publisher=Bella Bleu Blog|accessdate=July 22, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140226142907/http://www.bellableubridal.com/wedding-blog/couture-boutique-bridal-appointment/chad-and-syndal/|archive-date=February 26, 2014}} The couple appeared on an episode of House Hunters.{{cite web|title=Pro Baseball Player Wants Off-Season Party Pad in Vegas|url=http://www.hgtv.com/house-hunters/pro-baseball-player-wants-off-season-party-pad-in-vegas/index.html|publisher=Scripps Networks, LLC.|accessdate=February 23, 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140227013949/http://www.hgtv.com/house-hunters/pro-baseball-player-wants-off-season-party-pad-in-vegas/index.html|archive-date=February 27, 2014}}

Syndal chose her wedding gown on an episode of Say Yes to the Dress entitled The Group Calls It. She was accompanied to Kleinfeld's by Yankee wives Amber (Mrs. C.C.) Sabathia and Karen (Mrs. A.J.) Burnett and a friend, Tara Neal, who picked her dress for her. When the episode was aired, Gaudin was with the Nationals.{{Cite web |title=The Group Calls It |url=https://www.tlc.com/shows/say-yes-to-the-dress/episodes/the-group-calls-it |access-date=November 12, 2023 |website=TLC.com |language=en}}

In July 2013, it was reported that Gaudin had been charged with lewdness stemming from an incident in January. While in the emergency room of Desert Springs Hospital, it was alleged that Gaudin groped a woman while she was lying on a gurney.{{cite web|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/foul-ball-giants-pitcher-charged-groping-woman-article-1.1395281|title=Giants pitcher Chad Gaudin charged with groping woman at Las Vegas hospital|work=nydailynews.com|date=July 10, 2013|accessdate=February 26, 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://deadspin.com/police-chad-gaudin-groped-a-woman-on-a-gurney-in-an-er-733976750|title=Police: Chad Gaudin Groped A Woman On A Gurney In An ER|last=Petchesky|first=Barry|work=deadspin.com|date=July 10, 2013|accessdate=February 26, 2015}} In September he pleaded no contest to a reduced charge of disorderly conduct and was sentenced to 100 hours of community service and impulse control counselling.{{cite web|url=http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/sports/phillies/Phillies-add-pitching-depth-in-Chad-Gaudin.html|title=Phillies add pitching depth in Chad Gaudin|last=Gelb|first=Matt|work=philly.com|date=February 26, 2015|accessdate=February 26, 2015}}