As Major League Baseball's July 31 trade deadline approaches, the focus is increasingly on the potential for starting pitching trades. While many names have surfaced in trade discussions, the actual availability of these players remains uncertain. Furthermore, some pitchers' perceived value may not align with their real-world performance. This article examines several intriguing starting pitchers rumored to be available, offering insights into potential fits for various teams as the trade deadline nears.

Reports indicate that the Washington Nationals are open to discussing a trade for MacKenzie Gore, with interest from around six teams. However, the Nationals are reportedly "very unlikely" to part ways with the rising star, who has posted a 3.59 ERA with 140 strikeouts over 112.2 innings in the current season. The Seattle Mariners represent a compelling fit for Gore, whose highly regarded farm system could provide the Nationals with valuable prospects to aid in their rebuilding efforts. Despite a reputation for pitching strength, the Mariners have faced injuries to key figures like Logan Gilbert and George Kirby, making the acquisition of Gore essential for their pitching rotation.

Another pitcher on the market is Luis Severino of the Oakland Athletics, despite being in the first year of a three-year, $67 million contract. Analysts suggest the New York Mets are a suitable destination for Severino, especially considering his struggles at Sutter Health Park, a minor league facility. With the Mets experiencing their share of injury woes in the rotation, the addition of a seasoned pitcher like Severino could provide the stability they need.

Dylan Cease of the San Diego Padres has also generated interest, with multiple teams reaching out about him. The Chicago Cubs are among those inquiring about Cease, who has displayed exceptional strikeout ability with at least ten strikeouts per nine innings in each of his last five seasons. A potential trade back to the Cubs, where Cease began his career, could benefit both parties, although the Cubs will need to part with a valuable prospect to make it happen.

In another development, Sandy Alcantara, the 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner, has been a frequent subject of trade speculation. His struggles this season alongside a concerning 6.66 ERA have raised doubts about his value on the trade market. The Toronto Blue Jays might find him an appealing option, especially given their need for pitching talent. Alcantara’s ground-ball approach would benefit from the Blue Jays' strong infield defense, which could mitigate some of his recent challenges.

Edward Cabrera is another pitcher attracting attention, with reports indicating he is becoming more coveted on the trade market. While injuries have clouded Cabrera’s availability, his recent performance— including a 2.47 ERA across his last 13 starts—has made him an attractive option for teams like the Houston Astros. The Astros, facing their own injury concerns, could seek Cabrera's consistent innings and control.

Seth Lugo of the Kansas City Royals is reportedly not on the trade block, but there are rumors that he could become available, particularly if the Royals continue to be in playoff contention. The Los Angeles Dodgers could be an interesting fit for Lugo as they seek to bolster their rotation amid injury issues. Lugo has consistently demonstrated durability with an impressive ERA over the past two seasons, making him a potential solution for the Dodgers' pitching challenges.

Additionally, the Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly willing to make significant moves at the deadline, with Mitch Keller highlighted as a potential centerpiece in trade discussions. Keller has shown potential as a reliable mid-rotation starter, which could be of interest to the Boston Red Sox. With their own rotation facing uncertainty, the Red Sox could benefit from Keller's presence, especially as they aim for a playoff push.

Lastly, Zac Gallen of the Arizona Diamondbacks has emerged as a player to watch. Despite a downturn in performance this season, Gallen's past accolades make him a desirable candidate for teams like the New York Yankees. With the Yankees needing to fill the void left by injured starters, a trade for Gallen could create a beneficial partnership, as the Diamondbacks are looking for young pitching prospects in return.