Major League Baseball's July 31 trade deadline is approaching, and one area that appears to be particularly rich in potential deals is starting pitching. While numerous names have surfaced in trade rumors, the actual availability of many of these pitchers remains uncertain. This complexity further complicates the evaluation of a pitcher's name value in relation to his on-field performance. However, due to the volume of speculation, a 'MLB Trade Deadline Matchmaker' exercise was conducted to identify eight intriguing starters who could be on the move. The analysis categorizes these pitchers based on the likelihood of them being traded, from least likely to most likely.

Latest reports from Jon Heyman of the New York Post indicate that the Washington Nationals are open to trade discussions regarding MacKenzie Gore. While a number of teams have expressed interest, it is noted that the Nationals are 'very unlikely' to part ways with the promising 2025 All-Star. The Seattle Mariners emerge as a potential destination for Gore, a team with a strong rotation reputation that has underperformed. The Mariners' offense is above average, but injuries to key pitchers like Logan Gilbert and Bryce Miller have left them vulnerable. With a current 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts through 112.2 innings, Gore's status as a dominant starter aligns well with Seattle's needs. Moreover, the Mariners possess the prospect capital to facilitate a trade, boasting the top-ranked farm system which includes high-upside talent crucial for the Nationals' rebuilding efforts.

In another development, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that despite being in the first year of a three-year, $67 million contract, Luis Severino is among several starting pitchers that the Oakland Athletics are actively shopping. The New York Mets are identified as a fitting destination for Severino, who has expressed dissatisfaction with Sutter Health Park, where he holds a 6.68 ERA compared to 3.10 on the road. Although Severino’s metrics raise concerns, his status as a two-time All-Star remains appealing. Given the Mets' current pitching struggles evident in their rotation's health concerns, Severino could provide a much-needed boost. The Mets seem to be one of the few teams able to take on Severino's financial obligations without issue, making this potential trade realistic.

Additionally, there are reports from Heyman indicating that the San Diego Padres have received inquiries about Dylan Cease from six teams. Interestingly, the Padres are not positioning themselves as traditional sellers and may only consider a deal if it addresses other needs. The Chicago Cubs have surfaced as a possible match for Cease. The Cubs' rotation displays a notably low strikeout percentage, ranking last among projected playoff teams, which contrasts with Cease's ability to generate strikeouts, having achieved at least 10 strikeouts per nine innings for five consecutive seasons. A trade back to the Cubs, where Cease began his career, would be meaningful, although the Cubs may need to part with promising outfielder Owen Caissie, who is currently excelling at Triple-A.

Meanwhile, the Padres are reportedly interested in acquiring Sandy Alcantara from the Miami Marlins, even as he stands as a questionable trade candidate at this time. Alcantara's disappointing 6.66 ERA and his ongoing recovery journey post-Tommy John surgery raise concerns about his durability for the October playoffs. He remains under contract through 2026, making him an attractive long-term option. However, the Toronto Blue Jays are mentioned as a better fit given their strong infield defense and the capability to mitigate Alcantara’s struggles with free passes. With the Blue Jays first in the division despite a high rotation ERA, they are on the lookout for more affordable acquisitions as they face a shortage in prospect depth.

Another name worth discussing is Edward Cabrera, who has gained traction in trade discussions as teams express an interest in the Marlins' pitching talent. Cabrera’s injury history is a concern, but he boasts a strong season with a 2.47 ERA and a significant strikeout advantage. The Houston Astros could consider Cabrera as a valuable addition to their rotation alongside fellow starters Hunter Brown and Framber Valdez. However, their lack of depth in the farm system presents a challenge for them to effectively pursue another injury-prone pitcher.

Seth Lugo's trade availability is still unclear, as Rosenthal noted that the Kansas City Royals could find an offer worthy of consideration even while remaining competitive. The Los Angeles Dodgers emerge as a team that might seek Lugo's services, particularly given their ongoing need for relief pitching as their bullpen has already logged the most innings in baseball. Lugo has consistently proved to be effective, averaging six innings per start and posting a near 3.00 ERA over the last two seasons. While he may not fit the Dodgers' traditional mold for starters, his innings-eating ability could provide valuable support as the team navigates a challenging season.

The Pittsburgh Pirates reportedly are open to making significant moves ahead of the trade deadline, with Mitch Keller standing out as a notable trade chip. Keller has demonstrated mid-rotation potential and could be a substantial gain for teams in need of solid starters. The Boston Red Sox represent a fitting option, as their rotation experiences depth issues beyond their top starters. Keller’s ability to stabilize the rotation could benefit the Red Sox's potential playoff aspirations, and his secured contract through 2028 could alleviate future roster concerns.

Finally, Mark Feinsand of MLB.com indicated that the Diamondbacks have begun to reposition themselves for trades, with Zac Gallen listed among candidates to be moved. Despite being a past All-Star and Cy Young contender, Gallen's performance has dipped to a concerning 5.58 ERA this season. His tendency to allow home runs places him in an unfavorable position compared to other pitchers. Nevertheless, there remains respect for his resilience and competitive nature, as noted by insiders. The New York Yankees could find Gallen appealing, particularly given their need for a starter following injuries to their rotation. The Yankees possess the pitching prospects that align well with the Diamondbacks' focus on acquiring young talent, paving the way for a potential trade that satisfies both teams’ needs.