As Major League Baseball's July 31 trade deadline approaches, one area of significant speculation is starting pitching. While numerous players have emerged in trade rumors, the actual availability of many remains uncertain. This article engages in a hypothetical exercise of identifying potential trade scenarios for eight noteworthy starters whose names have circulated recently, ranked in order of their likelihood to be dealt, from least to most probable.

Recent reports indicate that the Washington Nationals are open to discussions regarding pitcher MacKenzie Gore, although they are deemed "very unlikely" to part with him. The Seattle Mariners may be the most fitting destination, as they face a challenging season, having traded offensive prowess for run prevention. With both Logan Gilbert and George Kirby experiencing injuries, adding a dominant pitcher like Gore—who holds a 3.59 ERA—could significantly bolster their rotation. Furthermore, Seattle's top-ranked farm system might provide the Nationals with the prospects needed to expedite their rebuilding process.

Luis Severino of the Oakland Athletics has also generated trade talks despite being in the first year of a three-year, $67 million contract. The New York Mets present a viable option as a potential destination; Severino has struggled with poor metrics, yet his two-time All-Star pedigree and ability to log significant innings could appeal to a Mets rotation riddled with question marks. Acquiring Severino might not evoke concern over his contract costs, making them a strong candidate.

In addition, the San Diego Padres have received interest in Dylan Cease from six teams but are not in conventional selling mode. The Chicago Cubs appear as a fitting candidate for a trade given their lack of strikeouts from starting pitchers, an area where Cease excels. His history as a former Cubs prospect could add another dimension to the trade narrative.

Despite Sandy Alcantara of the Miami Marlins facing questions about his trade value due to a high ERA and concerns about his durability post-surgery, the Toronto Blue Jays could be a good fit. Alcantara's performance might benefit from throwing to a proficient catcher and a well-structured defensive infield, plus the Blue Jays are in a position where they seek affordable talent amid a lack of prospect depth.

Edward Cabrera has gained attention in the trade market, with teams like the Houston Astros considering a move. Cabrera's strong performance, evidenced by a 2.47 ERA over his last 13 starts, alongside his controllable contract, presents an attractive option for the Astros. However, concerns over injuries could complicate the equation, given Houston's already fragile pitching depth.

The Kansas City Royals may contemplate dealing Seth Lugo, who would be an appealing addition for the Los Angeles Dodgers. As the Dodgers face a need for stable innings in their rotation following injuries, Lugo's ability to eat innings while maintaining a respectable ERA could be valuable amid a heavy workload on the bullpen.

Mitch Keller of the Pittsburgh Pirates has garnered interest as a strong trade piece ahead of the deadline. While various teams, including the Cubs and Blue Jays, seem interested, the Boston Red Sox might provide the best fit. A mid-rotation starter, Keller could stabilize the Red Sox's pitching depth as they aim for a playoff push, especially with injuries affecting their rotation.

Finally, Zac Gallen from the Arizona Diamondbacks has become a trade focus, particularly for the New York Yankees. Despite an underwhelming season, Gallen's competitive spirit suggests he could thrive in a new environment. The Yankees require solid pitching depth following injuries, and Gallen's potential aligns well with what Arizona seeks in return, mainly young pitching talent.