As Major League Baseball's July 31 trade deadline approaches, starting pitching appears to be an area with significant potential for trades. While numerous players have surfaced in trade discussions, the actual availability of these pitchers often remains uncertain. Additionally, there can be a disparity between a pitcher's reputation and their current performance value. Given the buzz surrounding potential moves, a careful examination of eight intriguing starting pitchers is warranted, assessing teams that both require their services and possess the necessary assets for acquisition. This analysis will rank these pitchers in ascending order of trade likelihood, with the least likely moves presented last.

Reports from Jon Heyman of the New York Post indicate that the Washington Nationals are considering offers for MacKenzie Gore, though they are reportedly 'very unlikely' to part with the 2025 All-Star. The Seattle Mariners are identified as a fitting destination for Gore. The Mariners, who entered 2025 with expectations as a pitching-oriented team, are exhibiting a contrasting trend; they are currently above average in offense but below average in runs allowed. Injuries to key pitchers like Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, and Bryce Miller have exacerbated their situation. Gore is performing well, with a 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts over 112.2 innings, and the Mariners, possessing the league's top-ranked farm system, may have the prospects to entice the Nationals.

In another scenario, despite being in the initial year of a three-year, $67 million contract, Luis Severino has emerged as a trade target for the Oakland Athletics, per Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. The New York Mets could be an ideal landing spot for Severino, as he has expressed dissatisfaction with Sutter Health Park, where he has struggled to pitch effectively. The Mets are currently facing significant challenges within their rotation and could benefit from Severino's experience, as he produced a solid 3.91 ERA and 182 innings in 2024. The team's financial position might also allow them to absorb his contract without much difficulty, making this a plausible trade.

The San Diego Padres find themselves amidst trade discussions regarding Dylan Cease, according to Heyman, although the team's non-traditional seller status complicates matters. The Chicago Cubs have expressed interest in Cease, who has garnered Cy Young votes in the past. This interest is particularly strategic for the Cubs, given their starting rotation's low strikeout rate. Cease boasts a knack for generating strikeouts and could thrive if traded back to the Cubs, having started his career in their system before moving to the White Sox. The Cubs may not have an overwhelming amount of immediate major league talent to offer but could leverage promising prospects like Owen Caissie to facilitate a transaction.

Furthermore, reports from Dennis Lin of The Athletic indicate that the Padres are interested in Sandy Alcantara, although his trade value is tempered by concerns surrounding his recent performance and workload following Tommy John surgery. The Toronto Blue Jays, currently leading their division despite rotation struggles, may find Alcantara's skills appealing. Upgrading their rotation could prove essential for a playoff run, and teaming him with elite defensive capabilities might help him regain form. Alcantara, signed through 2026, fits well with a Blue Jays team that requires cost-effective options due to a weaker farm system.

In the case of Edward Cabrera, another coveted Marlins pitcher, injury history looms as a concern. However, Cabrera's recent performance has been impressive, with a 2.47 ERA over his last 13 starts. The Houston Astros could be taking a keen interest in Cabrera, as his affordable contract and the potential for longevity could provide value to a team seeking stability amidst current injury challenges. While the Astros need another arm in their rotation, their lack of prospect depth could complicate negotiations.

Seth Lugo's availability has also come into question, with reports suggesting the Kansas City Royals could be tempted to trade him, depending on the return. The Los Angeles Dodgers might view Lugo as a potential option, although their primary focus is on acquiring a starter. Lugo possesses durability and effectiveness, with a solid recent performance history. His ability to throw extended innings could provide immediate relief for the beleaguered Dodgers bullpen, while a potential trade might necessitate a balance of immediate assets and future potential from the Dodgers' roster.

As the Pittsburgh Pirates prepare for potential moves, the spotlight shines on Mitch Keller as a leading trade candidate. Keller's adaptability as a mid-rotation pitcher could serve various teams effectively, including the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox, who require depth in their rotation, would benefit from Keller's ability to eat innings and provide stability. Keller's contract situation further positions him as an attractive trade asset, and the Pirates may aim for one of Boston's promising hitters as part of any deal, focusing on rebuilding their own system.

Lastly, the Diamondbacks' rumored intention to engage in trade talks raises questions regarding starting pitcher Zac Gallen. While Gallen had a standout performance in previous seasons, his decline in form this year opens the possibility for a change of scenery. The New York Yankees, who have encountered substantial rotation issues, could find Gallen an intriguing target. With Gallen’s competitive spirit and strong track record, there exists potential for a renewed effectiveness if he were to don the Yankees' uniform. However, the trade dynamics will hinge on aligning the Yankees' prospect strengths with the Diamondbacks' needs.