With Major League Baseball's July 31 trade deadline approaching, it appears that starting pitching could be a significant area of focus. Many names have surfaced in trade rumors, but the availability of these players remains uncertain. Additionally, there may be disparities between a pitcher's perceived value and their actual contributions on the field. Amidst this backdrop, Moneyline takes a closer look at eight notable starting pitchers whose names have been mentioned in recent discussions, identifying teams that could benefit from their acquisition while also having the means to do so.

MacKenzie Gore of the Washington Nationals has drawn interest from roughly six teams according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, although the Nationals are reportedly "very unlikely" to part ways with the 2025 All-Star. The Seattle Mariners could be a fitting destination for Gore as they experience injuries within their rotation. Currently positioned above average in runs scored, but below in runs allowed, the Mariners could benefit from Gore's impressive performance in 2025, which includes a 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts over 112.2 innings. Additionally, with one of the top-ranked farm systems according to B/R's Joel Reuter, the Mariners might possess the prospect capital necessary to attract the Nationals' attention.

In contrast, Luis Severino, currently in the first year of a three-year, $67 million contract with the Oakland Athletics, has also entered discussions regarding a potential trade. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Severino's skills may find a better home with the New York Mets, who could benefit substantially from his experience. The Mets face uncertainty in their rotation due to multiple players spending time on the injured list. Severino, despite recent struggles, brings All-Star value and could complement the Mets' needs given their current pitching woes and the capacity to absorb his contract.

Dylan Cease, another name mentioned frequently in trade circles, reportedly has garnered interest from six teams including the Chicago Cubs. Despite the San Diego Padres not being traditional sellers, they may move Cease to bolster other aspects of their roster. The Cubs, who rank low in their rotation's strikeout rate compared to other playoff contenders, would find Cease's ability to generate strikeouts beneficial. A previous member of the Cubs organization, Cease could see a welcome return to the North Side, though the Cubs must navigate their available assets carefully to ensure a successful trade.

The Padres have also expressed interest in acquiring Sandy Alcantara, although concerns around his trade value exist, especially given a 6.66 ERA in 2025. Despite a successful track record, Alcantara's workload since returning from Tommy John surgery raises questions about his durability. The Toronto Blue Jays may be an ideal landing spot, as their rotation struggles with a 4.52 ERA. With their strong infield defense and the potential to maximize Alcantara's abilities, the Blue Jays could address their pitching needs effectively while navigating a tight prospect pool.

Another player generating buzz is Edward Cabrera of the Miami Marlins, who has gained attention on the market. The Houston Astros, looking to enhance their rotation, might consider Cabrera, who has demonstrated dominance this season with a 2.47 ERA over his last 13 starts. While injury concerns are prevalent, Cabrera’s affordability and control could appeal greatly to an Astros team looking to bolster their pitching staff without exceeding financial constraints linked to high-salary options.

Seth Lugo of the Kansas City Royals remains a less likely trade piece but might attract interest due to his consistency as a starter. While the Dodgers primarily need relief help, Lugo's experience and ability to log innings could provide much-needed stability, particularly considering the heavy workload that has pressed on their bullpen due to rotational injuries throughout the season. Lugo remains a practical option for a short-term need, even in the face of the Royals' required asks in return.

Mitch Keller of the Pittsburgh Pirates has been mentioned as a key name in trade talks, presenting various opportunities for prospective teams. The Boston Red Sox could benefit from Keller’s steady performance, positioning him well within their rotation. Keller could serve as a mid-rotation stabilizer for a Red Sox team aiming for a playoff push. As discussions heat up around Keller, the Pirates may look to leverage young talent from the Red Sox’s prospect pool as part of any potential deal.

Lastly, Zac Gallen of the Arizona Diamondbacks finds himself in a challenging season, registering a 5.58 ERA. Despite his recent struggles, the Yankees could view him as a trade target, especially as they have faced pitching depth issues. The alignment in terms of prospect development needs between the Yankees and Diamondbacks could facilitate a deal, highlighting the need for both teams to capitalize on Gallen’s potential to reinvent himself in a new environment.