Major League Baseball's trade deadline on July 31 is approaching, and there is considerable speculation surrounding available starting pitchers. While many names have emerged in trade discussions, the actual availability of these players remains uncertain. The varying levels of talent and effectiveness among these pitchers adds complexity to potential trades. This article explores eight key starting pitchers who are receiving attention and evaluates potential landing spots for each, ranking them from least likely to most likely to be traded.

Recent reports from Jon Heyman of the New York Post indicate that the Washington Nationals are open to discussions regarding MacKenzie Gore. However, he is deemed 'very unlikely' to be moved, despite receiving interest from multiple teams. A plausible fit for Gore could be the Seattle Mariners, who have unexpectedly found themselves in need of starting pitching. The Mariners have experienced injuries to key pitchers Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, and Bryce Miller, and Gore's impressive tenure, featuring a 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts over 112.2 innings, could be a valuable asset. Further supporting this notion is the Mariners’ top-ranked farm system, teeming with high-upside prospects that might entice the Nationals as they continue their rebuilding process.

Luis Severino has emerged as another name in trade discussions. Despite being in the first year of a three-year, $67 million contract, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that the Oakland Athletics are considering moving him. A fitting destination for Severino might be the New York Mets. He has shown discontent with Sutter Health Park, a lesser-quality venue where his performance contrasts sharply with his road statistics. As a two-time All-Star, Severino possesses undeniable talent, and the Mets, navigating a rotation marked by injuries, could greatly benefit from adding his experience amid their current uncertainties.

Dylan Cease of the San Diego Padres is drawing interest from multiple teams, though he's not categorized as a traditional trade candidate. The Chicago Cubs, one of the teams expressing interest, may present a natural fit for Cease. With their current rotation striking out batters at the lowest percentage among playoff contenders, Cease's distinctive ability to induce strikeouts might address a vital need. A return to the Cubs would have narrative appeal as Cease began his career in their system before moving to the White Sox through the José Quintana trade. Although the Cubs lack an abundance of established major leaguers to trade, their promising prospect Owen Caissie, who is excelling at Triple-A, could provide the Padres with the offensive talent they seek.

The Padres have also been linked to Sandy Alcantara, with reports highlighting ongoing trade rumors surrounding the pitcher. Alcantara's uncharacteristic 6.66 ERA raises questions regarding his trade value; however, the Toronto Blue Jays might represent a strong match for him. Despite current struggles, Alcantara's previous Cy Young Award-winning status reflects his potential. His underwhelming performance could be balanced by pitching to a skilled framer like Alejandro Kirk and benefiting from the Blue Jays' efficient infield defense. Moreover, Toronto's need for affordable talent aligns well with Alcantara's future contract options.

Another arm gaining traction in trade conversations is Edward Cabrera of the Miami Marlins. Cabrera's injury history makes him a risk, but he has shown remarkable dominance lately with a 2.47 ERA in his last 13 starts. While the Houston Astros face challenges with their own pitching depth, Cabrera could fit well into their rotation. The team's need for a consistent starter could outweigh concerns regarding Cabrera’s injury history. His affordability adds further appeal as the Astros navigate the luxury tax threshold, avoiding higher-salary trade candidates.

Seth Lugo, while not officially on the trading block, has drawn interest from the Kansas City Royals, who may explore trades in an effort to strengthen their roster. The Los Angeles Dodgers, even if they seek a starting pitcher, could find Lugo's durability appealing amid an injury-riddled rotation. Lugo, who has proven to be an innings-eater, could alleviate some burden from the Dodgers' bullpen, which has been overworked this season. His function as an impending free agent might also make him an attractive target for teams looking for short-term solutions.

As the Pittsburgh Pirates embark on a potentially significant trade deadline, Mitch Keller stands out as a prominent name among their pitching offerings. While Keller is recognized for his mid-rotation capabilities rather than being a top-tier ace, the Boston Red Sox could represent a suitable landing spot. With Garrett Crochet establishing himself as a legitimate No. 1 starter, Keller's skill set could provide the Red Sox with necessary depth in their rotation amid injury concerns. With Keller signed through 2028, a trade may help the Pirates secure young talent while adding a stabilizing force for Boston as they aim for postseason contention.

The latest trade buzz involving the Arizona Diamondbacks positions Zac Gallen as a likely trade candidate following the recent move of Josh Naylor to Seattle. After being a 2023 All-Star and Cy Young candidate, Gallen's recent struggles raise questions regarding his value on the market. However, there remains respect within the league for Gallen's work ethic and resilience. His potential transformation in a new environment could make him an intriguing option for the New York Yankees, whose rotation has been challenged by injuries. Moreover, the Yankees' top-tier pitching prospects align with Arizona's rebuilding goals, making them suitable trading partners.