As Major League Baseball's July 31 trade deadline approaches, the focus increasingly shifts towards starting pitching. Although numerous players have surfaced in trade discussions, the actual availability of these pitchers remains uncertain. Furthermore, discrepancies often exist between a pitcher's reputation and their performance metrics. In light of this, Moneyline has explored potential trade matches for eight intriguing starting pitchers whose names have been mentioned in recent rumors.

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Washington Nationals are open to discussing a potential trade involving MacKenzie Gore, attracting interest from approximately six teams. However, the Nationals are considered 'very unlikely' to part ways with the 2025 All-Star. A fitting destination for Gore could be the Seattle Mariners. Entering the 2025 season, the Mariners were regarded as strong pitchers but have struggled offensively, currently averaging 4.61 runs scored per game while allowing 4.44 runs. With injuries affecting key starters, Gore, who boasts a 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts over 112.2 innings, could provide the much-needed boost for the Mariners. Furthermore, Seattle's premier farm system may offer the Nationals the high-caliber prospects needed to expedite their rebuilding process.

In other trade rumors, Luis Severino, amid a three-year, $67 million contract, has come under scrutiny for being one of the starting pitchers actively discussed by the Oakland Athletics, as reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. The New York Mets emerge as a noteworthy fit for Severino, given that he has publicly voiced his dissatisfaction with Sutter Health Park, where he has performed poorly relative to his away statistics. Despite his struggles, Severino remains a two-time All-Star capable of delivering substantial innings. With a rotation troubled by injuries, the Mets could utilize Severino's experience. The Mets may also be among the few teams that can manage Severino's contract without significant financial constraints.

Shifting focus to the San Diego Padres, Heyman notes that the team has received inquiries regarding Dylan Cease. The Padres, while not traditional sellers, are considering moves that would bolster their roster. The Chicago Cubs, reportedly interested in Cease, represent a suitable match given the team's struggle to generate strikeouts, currently possessing the lowest strikeout percentage among projected playoff teams. For Cease, a move back to the Cubs could signify a return to his roots, having initially entered the league through the Cubs' system before moving to the White Sox. Although the Cubs may lack excess major league talent, they possess significant prospects, including outfielder Owen Caissie, who has excelled in the minor leagues.

Meanwhile, the Padres are also potentially interested in Sandy Alcantara, although speculation surrounding his future has been ongoing since the spring. Complications regarding Alcantara's trade value stem from his performance, including a 6.66 ERA, combined with concerns about his endurance following Tommy John surgery. The Toronto Blue Jays, leading their division but facing challenges regarding their rotation's performance, could emerge as a viable trade partner. The chance to work with an elite catcher and benefit from an excellent defensive infield might help sustain Alcantara's ground-ball pitching style. Given the Blue Jays’ need for improvement while lacking strong farm depth, a deal involving Alcantara could be advantageous.

Additionally, Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins has garnered increasing attention, as reported by Jesse Rogers of ESPN. While Cabrera presents injury concerns, he has shown dominance on the mound with a 2.47 ERA since May. Despite the Astros' pitch depth being tested by injuries, Cabrera's affordability and continued team control could make him a strategic acquisition. The Astros are nearing the luxury tax limit and would prefer not to engage in high-salary trades, positioning Cabrera as an appealing candidate given the team's needs in the rotation.

In another intriguing situation, Seth Lugo of the Kansas City Royals is reportedly not openly available but could be enticing enough for a trade that addresses the Royals' desire for controllable outfield help. The Los Angeles Dodgers, while facing their own challenges in starting pitching, may find Lugo's ability to eat innings beneficial, especially given their rotation's struggles. Lugo's consistent performance and affordability make him a potential target, although the Royals might seek substantial compensation.

Finally, the Pittsburgh Pirates appear ready to make significant moves, with Mitch Keller at the forefront of their assets. Keller's capabilities as a mid-rotation starter could be appealing to teams like the Boston Red Sox, who could use additional stability in their rotation for a playoff push. With Keller under contract through 2028, he would provide durability as the Red Sox prepare for the future. The Pirates may aim for young hitters in return, hoping to capitalize on their current assets.

As the trade deadline approaches, the landscape of potential pitcher movements remains dynamic, with numerous teams weighing their options on starting pitchers that could significantly impact their postseason aspirations.