MLB Trade Deadline Preview: The Starting Pitching Market

As the July 31st trade deadline approaches in Major League Baseball, starting pitching emerges as a potential focal point of activity. Despite numerous pitchers being mentioned in trade discussions, their actual availability remains uncertain. This article examines the eight most compelling starting pitchers rumored to be on the move, assessing which teams could benefit from their addition and possess the resources to make a trade happen. The analysis will categorize these pitchers in order of their likelihood to be traded, starting with those least likely to move.
Recent reports indicate that the Washington Nationals are open to discussions regarding MacKenzie Gore, attracting interest from approximately six teams. However, the Nationals are reportedly 'very unlikely' to part with the 2025 All-Star. The Seattle Mariners present a viable fit for Gore, who boasts a 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts over 112.2 innings. With injuries affecting their rotation, the Mariners could benefit significantly from the addition of a dominant starter like Gore. Furthermore, the Mariners possess one of the top-ranked farm systems in baseball, providing the Nationals with valuable prospects in return.
Conversely, Luis Severino, currently in the first year of a three-year, $67 million contract, is reportedly being explored by the Oakland Athletics for potential trades. The New York Mets could be a suitable destination for Severino, who has struggled at Sutter Health Park but excelled on the road with a 3.10 ERA. The Mets, dealing with their own pitching injuries, could be in need of Severino's talent to bolster their rotation. His hefty contract may not deter the Mets, as they possess the financial flexibility to accommodate such a deal.
The San Diego Padres are reportedly receiving calls from six teams regarding Dylan Cease, although ESPN has noted that the Padres are not operating as traditional sellers. The Chicago Cubs are among the teams expressing interest in Cease, who has consistently struck out at least ten batters per nine innings over the last five seasons. A trade to Cease's former team could represent a return to familiar territory as he initially began his career with the Cubs before moving to the White Sox in the José Quintana trade. However, while the Cubs could strengthen their rotation, they may need to part with prospects to complete such a deal.
In the ongoing trade discussions, the Padres are also reportedly interested in acquiring Sandy Alcantara. Despite a challenging season marked by a 6.66 ERA as he returns from Tommy John surgery, the former Cy Young Award winner remains an intriguing option for potential suitors. The Toronto Blue Jays, currently leading their division, could be a strong match for Alcantara, especially given their need for starting pitching to improve upon a 4.52 rotation ERA. Alcantara's ground-ball tendencies may benefit from the Blue Jays' solid infield defense, enhancing his chances of success moving forward.
Meanwhile, Edward Cabrera of the Miami Marlins has emerged as a more sought-after option within trade circles. Cabrera has shown dominance with a 2.47 ERA in his last 13 starts, although concerns over his injury history persist. For the Houston Astros, Cabrera could present an appealing acquisition, offering both controllable years and the ability to complement their current rotation, which includes Hunter Brown and Framber Valdez. While Houston's farm system lacks depth, the need for another quality starter remains urgent as they pursue postseason success.
Seth Lugo remains a puzzle on the trade market, as he may not be actively shopped, but the Kansas City Royals could be tempted to trade him for controllable outfield help if the right offer arises. The Los Angeles Dodgers, although looking primarily for relief pitching, may still find value in adding an innings-eater like Lugo to relieve some of the workload placed on their bullpen. Despite being 35, Lugo has proven adept at providing quality innings, an asset the Dodgers could utilize amid a season beset by injuries.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly preparing for significant moves at the trade deadline, with Mitch Keller standing out as a key trade piece. Keller's performance, highlighted by a career-best 121 ERA+, positions him as a desirable mid-rotation starter. The Boston Red Sox are among the teams inquiring about Keller, as they seek stability within their rotation following injuries to other pitchers. Given Keller's contract extending through 2028, he could serve as a strategic addition for Boston, aligning with their goals for a playoff push while allowing them to evaluate their prospect offerings in return.
The Arizona Diamondbacks are reportedly shifting toward a sell mode, with Zac Gallen, an All-Star and previous Cy Young contender, also being mentioned as a potential trade candidate. Gallen's struggles this season, including a 5.58 ERA and leading the National League in home runs allowed, have tempered expectations. Still, his strong reputation and previous performances could entice the New York Yankees, who are actively seeking starting pitching to bolster their rotation following injuries. The Yankees' robust pool of pitching prospects could align with the Diamondbacks' rebuilding strategy, creating a mutually beneficial trading opportunity.








