As Major League Baseball's trade deadline approaches on July 31, the focus increasingly shifts toward starting pitching. While several players have emerged in trade discussions, their actual availability remains uncertain. Furthermore, there is often a contrast between a pitcher's perceived value and their performance metrics. In this analysis, we explore potential landing spots for some of the most intriguing starters discussed in trade rumors, ranking them by their likelihood of being moved.

Recent reports from Jon Heyman of the New York Post indicated that the Washington Nationals are open to offers for MacKenzie Gore, despite being 'very unlikely' to part ways with the 2025 All-Star. The Seattle Mariners could be a fitting destination for Gore, whose current stats reflect a solid 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts through 112.2 innings. The Mariners, known for their pitching talent yet struggling offensively, could benefit from Gore’s skills, especially as they contend with injuries among their current rotation. Seattle’s highly regarded farm system, touted as the best in the league, presents the kind of assets that could attract Washington's interest as they aim to expedite their rebuilding process.

Moreover, Luis Severino, amid his first year of a three-year, $67 million contract, has emerged as a potential trade candidate for the Oakland Athletics according to Ken Rosenthal’s reporting. A logical fit for Severino could be the New York Mets, who are in need of reliable pitching as they face health challenges within their rotation, including injuries to key players like Kodai Senga and Sean Manaea. Severino, despite his mixed performance metrics this season, remains a two-time All-Star and could contribute effectively, especially as the Mets look to solidify their pitching depth.

In another notable development, reports have suggested that the San Diego Padres have fielded inquiries about Dylan Cease, with multiple teams showing interest. However, the Padres may not be traditional sellers at this juncture, only looking to make moves that could better their overall roster. The Chicago Cubs stand out as a strong candidate to pursue Cease, particularly due to their current issues with strikeouts from their rotation. Cease has consistently shown his ability to miss bats and could thrive back in a Cubs uniform, having started his career in their system before a trade to the White Sox.

The Miami Marlins' Sandy Alcantara is another name generating trade buzz, with Dennis Lin of The Athletic reporting that the Padres have expressed interest. Despite a challenging season that has seen his ERA balloon to 6.66, Alcantara, the former NL Cy Young Award winner, still possesses significant upside, especially with teams looking for depth. The Toronto Blue Jays might be an ideal match as they lead the AL East, offering a strong infield defense and an elite catcher in Alejandro Kirk to help Alcantara perform more effectively on the mound. The Blue Jays, however, need to navigate their limited prospect pool carefully to secure a deal.

Additionally, Edward Cabrera has gained traction as a coveted piece in the trade market, with ESPN noting his rising value. Cabrera, who boasts a 2.47 ERA since May, could fit well with the Houston Astros, who are in search of reliable pitching depth amid concerns about their current rotation's health. Despite his injury history, Cabrera is younger and more cost-effective than Alcantara, presenting a compelling option for the Astros as they consider their financial constraints.

Seth Lugo may also be a name to watch, as reports suggest that the Kansas City Royals could contemplate trading him for controllable outfield talent. A potential landing spot for Lugo could be the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are in dire need of relief pitching. Lugo has proven to be an innings eater despite being 35 years old and could provide valuable depth as the Dodgers contend with consistent injuries in their rotation. However, the Dodgers' priorities remain entrenched in bolstering their starting lineup, meaning that the interest in Lugo may only complement their overall strategy.

Lastly, the Pittsburgh Pirates appear ready to make significant moves at the deadline. While the future of top prospect Paul Skenes remains uncertain, Mitch Keller has emerged as a key player who could be traded. The Boston Red Sox stand out as a possible partner for Keller, who fits seamlessly into their rotation needs as a mid-rotation starter. Signing through 2028, Keller could stabilize the Red Sox's pitching as they aim for a playoff push and would lessen the need for replacements as key pitchers enter free agency.

As the trade deadline looms, the dynamics surrounding these pitching talents showcase the complex interplay of team needs and market values, setting the stage for what promises to be an engaging conclusion to the season.