Major League Baseball's trade deadline on July 31 is approaching, and there is significant speculation regarding starting pitchers. While various names have emerged in trade discussions, the availability of these players remains uncertain. There appears to be a discrepancy between the perceived value of certain pitchers and their actual contributions. This article explores eight intriguing starting pitchers who may be on the move, identifying teams likely to pursue their services, organized from least likely to most likely to make a deal.

According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Washington Nationals are open to inquiries regarding MacKenzie Gore, receiving interest from approximately six teams. However, the Nationals are described as 'very unlikely' to part ways with the 2025 All-Star. The Seattle Mariners emerge as a plausible destination for Gore, as injuries to key pitchers Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, and Bryce Miller have necessitated additional pitching depth. Currently boasting a 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts through 112.2 innings, Gore’s performance suggests he has the stamina and talent to bolster the Mariners' rotation, which has seen challenges this season. Furthermore, Seattle's top-ranked farm system positions them well to offer the prospect capital the Nationals seek to expedite their rebuilding efforts.

Luis Severino, in the first year of a three-year, $67 million contract, is reportedly on the market as the Oakland Athletics actively explore trade possibilities. The New York Mets are identified as a fitting landing spot for Severino, given their struggles with pitching depth and his struggles with Sutter Health Park, where he holds a dismal 6.68 ERA compared to his 3.10 ERA on the road. Despite lacking strong metrics this season, Severino's history as a two-time All-Star and his potential make him an attractive option for a Mets team that could benefit from another dependable arm, especially with injuries affecting their rotation.

The San Diego Padres have fielded interest from six teams regarding Dylan Cease, but they are not looking to sell in a traditional sense. The Chicago Cubs, one of the teams involved in discussions, present an interesting case as a suitable fit for Cease. The Cubs' starting rotation currently possesses the lowest strikeout percentage among projected playoff teams, and Cease has demonstrated a consistent ability to record strikeouts throughout his career. A trade back to the Cubs, where he began his professional journey, could provide a valuable addition to their pitching staff. The Cubs would need to leverage their prospects, such as outfielder Owen Caissie, to facilitate a deal.

The Padres have also expressed interest in Sandy Alcantara, although his recent struggles, including a 6.66 ERA, have raised questions about his trade value. Alcantara's long-term contract through 2026 with an option for 2027 adds complexity to any potential transaction. The Toronto Blue Jays are viewed as an ideal candidate for his services, benefiting from strong defensive support that could alleviate some of Alcantara's control issues. Given the Blue Jays' position within the playoff race despite a rotation ERA of 4.52, trading for Alcantara could yield long-term rewards without requiring exorbitant prospects.

While Alcantara garners attention, Edward Cabrera has become an increasingly coveted name in the trade market. Cabrera has garnered attention for his performance this season, posting a 2.47 ERA since May despite concerns over his injury history. The Houston Astros would benefit from acquiring Cabrera as they seek to strengthen their rotation around existing talents like Hunter Brown and Framber Valdez. Cabrera's affordability and the Astros' need for controllable talent align well, despite potential risks associated with his injury history.

Reports indicate that Seth Lugo may not be in play for trade, but the Kansas City Royals could consider moving him for the right return, especially if they seek controllable outfield help. The Los Angeles Dodgers find themselves in need of pitching depth, and Lugo could serve as a solution despite their primary objective being to secure a starter. Lugo's consistency as an innings-eater, reflected in his low ERA over the past two seasons, positions him as a valuable addition to the Dodgers' rotation, which has dealt with challenges this year.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly gearing up to make significant moves at the trade deadline, with Mitch Keller emerging as a key asset. While Keller has drawn interest from various teams, including the Cubs and Blue Jays, he fits best with the Boston Red Sox, who are in search of stability in their rotation. Keller’s ability to provide quality innings and his controlled contract align with the Red Sox's needs, allowing them to bolster their lineup for a playoff push as they seek to maintain competitiveness. The Pirates could target young hitters from the Red Sox system in return to further their rebuilding efforts.

In the wake of the Diamondbacks entering sell mode, Zac Gallen's name has surfaced as a potential trade candidate. Despite struggling through the 2025 season, Gallen's previous success as an All-Star and Cy Young contender invites speculation about a revival with a different team. The New York Yankees, seeking pitching reinforcements due to injuries impacting their rotation, could be a fitting match. With a strong emphasis on acquiring young pitching, the Yankees may utilize their robust pitching prospect pool to engage in discussions with Arizona.

As the trade deadline nears, teams are weighing their options on the market for starting pitchers. Whether pursuing players such as Gore, Severino, Cease, Alcantara, Cabrera, Lugo, Keller or Gallen, crews are strategizing to bolster their rosters for postseason contention.