With the Major League Baseball trade deadline approaching on July 31, starting pitching emerges as a significant area of interest for teams and analysts alike. While many names have been circulating in trade discussions, the actual availability of these pitchers remains uncertain. Moreover, there appears to be a disparity between the perceived value of certain players and their actual contributions on the field. In light of the buzz surrounding the trade deadline, we explore potential landing spots for eight intriguing starters whose names have been mentioned in various reports, categorizing them based on the likelihood of being traded.

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Washington Nationals are open to inquiries regarding MacKenzie Gore, with multiple teams expressing interest. However, it remains unlikely that the Nationals will part ways with their 2025 All-Star. A potential fit for Gore could be the Seattle Mariners, who have faced challenges in their pitching staff due to injuries to key players such as Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, and Bryce Miller. Despite these hurdles, Gore has performed well with a 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts over 112.2 innings, suggesting he has more to offer. The Mariners, possessing the top farm system in the league, may be one of the few teams equipped with the prospect capital needed to facilitate a trade for Gore, aligning with the Nationals' rebuilding goals.

In another scenario, Luis Severino, currently in the first year of a three-year, $67 million contract, has reportedly become available as the Oakland Athletics actively explore trade options. The New York Mets appear to be an optimal destination for Severino, given their need for reliable pitching. Severino has struggled at Sutter Health Park, demonstrating a 6.68 ERA at home versus a 3.10 mark on the road. Considering the Mets face significant uncertainties within their starting rotation, acquiring Severino could provide a boost. The Mets may have the financial flexibility to absorb his contract without being overwhelmed by the costs associated with his acquisition.

Dylan Cease has also generated considerable trade interest, with the San Diego Padres reportedly receiving inquiries from at least six teams. However, the Padres are not in traditional selling mode, as they seek to bolster their roster while entertaining trade offers. The Chicago Cubs have been identified as a likely fit for Cease, especially given their struggles with strikeouts among their starters. Cease, who has consistently averaged 10 strikeouts per nine innings, could address the Cubs' needs while also coming full circle in his career, as he originally began with the Cubs organization before moving to the White Sox.

Furthermore, the Padres are rumored to have interest in Sandy Alcantara, though trading the 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner presents complications. Alcantara's current ERA of 6.66 raises questions about his trade value, alongside concerns about his endurance following Tommy John surgery. The Toronto Blue Jays may represent a more suitable destination for Alcantara, especially as they seek additional pitching depth amidst a respectable start to their season. Their excellent infield defense and the presence of a proficient catcher could facilitate a more productive environment for Alcantara, who is under contract through 2026 with a club option for 2027.

Edward Cabrera has emerged as a coveted option on the trade market, amid growing interest from potential suitors. His recent performances have been impressive, reflected in his 2.47 ERA across his last 13 starts. Despite the health concerns surrounding Cabrera, his affordability and controllability present an attractive proposition for teams like the Houston Astros, who are in need of additional pitching. However, the Astros may face challenges in the trade landscape as their farm system is not particularly deep. They require a starter to complement their current rotation, particularly with Framber Valdez's impending free agency approaching afterward.

Although Seth Lugo is not explicitly available, the Kansas City Royals might find it tempting to trade him, particularly if they can secure controllable outfield talent in return. The Los Angeles Dodgers would represent a logical fit for Lugo; despite their need for a starter, they are equally in search of relief pitching. Lugo has averaged six innings per start and logged 206.2 innings last year, showcasing his capacity as an innings eater. With injuries afflicting the Dodgers' rotation throughout the season, Lugo's contributions could provide much-needed stability, despite his impending free agency.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly positioning themselves for a significant trade deadline, with Mitch Keller emerging as a key piece in their offerings. Keller, while more of a mid-rotation starter, boasts a career-best 121 ERA+ and could serve as an asset for teams like the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox, who currently have a solid rotation anchored by Garrett Crochet and Brayan Bello, could benefit from acquiring Keller to bolster their depth as they pursue a playoff push. In return, the Pirates may look for young hitters from the Red Sox's pipeline, further supporting both teams' long-term objectives.

Lastly, Zac Gallen of the Arizona Diamondbacks is another noteworthy name, as he has fallen short of expectations in 2025 with a 5.58 ERA. Despite this downturn, his previous accolades suggest potential for a turnaround, and the New York Yankees could find him appealing as they seek starting pitching following injuries to their rotation. The alignment of interests between the Yankees and Diamondbacks, particularly given the Yankees' stable of pitching prospects, may pave the way for a mutually beneficial trade as the deadline approaches.