As the July 31 trade deadline approaches in Major League Baseball, one area of focus appears to be starting pitching. While many players have emerged in trade discussions, the availability of these pitchers remains uncertain. Additionally, discrepancies exist between a pitcher's name recognition and their actual value. With that in mind, a selection of the most intriguing starting pitchers rumored to be on the trading block has been identified, alongside teams that could benefit from these acquisitions.

Recent reports indicate that the Washington Nationals are open to discussions regarding MacKenzie Gore, having received interest from several teams. Nonetheless, it's noted that the team is 'very unlikely' to part ways with the 2025 All-Star. The Seattle Mariners stand out as a potential fit for Gore, as they are experiencing pitching struggles due to injuries, with key players like Logan Gilbert and George Kirby sidelined. With a solid performance record, including a 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts through 112.2 innings, Gore would address the Mariners' pressing need for a reliable starter. Furthermore, Seattle's highly regarded farm system provides the necessary prospect depth to facilitate a trade.

Luis Severino of the Oakland Athletics is another pitcher that teams are considering, despite being in the first year of a three-year contract worth $67 million. The New York Mets are perceived as a suitable destination for Severino, who has expressed preference for a more accommodating playing environment than Sutter Health Park. Although his metrics have raised concerns, Severino remains a two-time All-Star with potential to contribute significantly to a Mets rotation that has been hampered by injuries. The Mets have a strong foundation for pitching but require additional depth, making Severino an attractive option.

The Chicago Cubs have also shown interest in Dylan Cease of the San Diego Padres, with reported talks between the two teams. Despite being seen as a seller, the Padres are exploring trade options that could enhance their overall roster. Cease, who has demonstrated an exceptional strikeout ability, is ideally suited for a Cubs team that is currently struggling in that area. A return to the Cubs organization would be full circle for Cease, who initially started his career with them before moving to the Padres in a trade involving José Quintana. The challenge for the Cubs lies in their limited supply of major-league-ready players, but they could trade outfielder Owen Caissie, a promising prospect, as part of a deal.

In the case of Sandy Alcantara, the Miami Marlins are receiving inquiries about the 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner, even amidst concerns regarding his performance following Tommy John surgery. The Toronto Blue Jays are identified as a prospective suitor that would benefit from Alcantara’s pitching style, particularly given their current rotation ERA of 4.52. The presence of an elite catcher like Alejandro Kirk and solid infield defense may help Alcantara improve upon his struggles this season. The Blue Jays, facing a lack of prospect depth, could also benefit from acquiring players who may not command a steep price.

Edward Cabrera, another Marlins pitcher, has garnered interest from teams, with increasing demand in the trade market. The Houston Astros may find Cabrera to be an appealing option. Despite a history of injuries, he has produced impressive numbers this season, including a 2.47 ERA in his last 13 starts. With his youthful energy and cost-efficient contract, Cabrera could fill a pressing need for the Astros' rotation. However, the team’s already strained pitching depth may complicate matters regarding an acquisition.

Seth Lugo's availability remains ambiguous; while the Kansas City Royals might be tempted to trade their righty, they also find themselves in a competitive position. The Los Angeles Dodgers, despite sorting out other priorities, could find Lugo appealing. Their rotation has faced challenges, leading to unprecedented bullpen workloads this season. Lugo, known for his longevity on the mound, could help stabilize the Dodgers as they look to manage injuries in their rotation.

As the Pittsburgh Pirates aim to make a significant move before the deadline, Mitch Keller stands out among their assets. Although varying opinions exist about his overall upside, Keller has improved this season, boasting a career-best 121 ERA+. Accepting that he is likely best suited as a mid-rotation starter, the Boston Red Sox could find him valuable for their playoff aspirations. Keller's continued presence through 2028 allows the Red Sox to round out their rotation as they strive for postseason success.

Finally, Zac Gallen of the Arizona Diamondbacks faces an uncertain future within the trade market. After enjoying a successful 2023 season, Gallen has struggled in 2025, leading to a 5.58 ERA. Nevertheless, he possesses the potential to rebound and thrive in a different environment. The New York Yankees, seeking starting pitching after Clarke Schmidt's surgery, may find Gallen appealing. With five of their seven top prospects being pitchers, the Yankees could provide young arms that align with the Diamondbacks’ goals.