As the July 31 trade deadline approaches in Major League Baseball, a potential surge in starting pitching talent could be on the horizon. Although numerous names have surfaced in trade discussions recently, the availability of these players remains uncertain. Additionally, there are instances where the perceived value of certain pitchers may not align with their actual performance. This article explores eight intriguing starters that have been mentioned in trade rumor circles, identifying the teams that not only could benefit from their acquisition but also possess the capability to make a trade. The pitchers are ranked from least likely to most likely to be moved.

In recent reports by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Washington Nationals have expressed their willingness to entertain offers for MacKenzie Gore, receiving inquiries from approximately six teams. However, the Nationals have indicated it is 'very unlikely' that Gore, a 2025 All-Star, will be traded. A logical fit for his services would be the Seattle Mariners. Initially perceived as a team rich in pitching, the Mariners have found themselves in need of help due to injuries to key starters such as Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, and Bryce Miller. Gore, with a 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts over 112.2 innings, represents a formidable option to bolster Seattle's rotation, especially given their top-ranked farm system which contains promising talent that might appeal to the Nationals.

Meanwhile, despite being in the first year of a three-year, $67 million contract, Luis Severino of the Oakland Athletics has become a sought-after name in the trade market, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. The New York Mets emerge as a suitable destination for Severino, particularly as they navigate concerns within their rotation. Severino's struggles have been accentuated by poor metrics, including low whiff and strikeout rates. However, his two-time All-Star pedigree and the potential for a bounce-back performance could interest the Mets, who are eager to enhance their pitching depth as they deal with injuries throughout their rotation.

The San Diego Padres have also garnered attention in the trade market, particularly concerning Dylan Cease. Six teams have reached out about the pitcher, but the Padres are reportedly not traditional sellers and are more inclined to trade Cease for assets that address their own needs. The Chicago Cubs have been linked to Cease, as they struggle with a lack of strikeouts among their starters. With a career history of striking out ten or more batters per nine innings, Cease could invigorate a Cubs rotation that has not excelled in that area. Moreover, teaming him with a franchise that drafted him before his trade to the White Sox in 2017 could prove to be a fruitful reunion.

On the other side of the trade spectrum, the Marlins have not ruled out moving Sandy Alcantara, as reported by Dennis Lin of The Athletic. Despite a challenging season reflected in his 6.66 ERA, Alcantara boasts a club option for 2027, making him an intriguing target for teams. The Toronto Blue Jays stand out as a likely candidate to pursue him, given their first-place standing despite facing difficulties with rotation consistency. Alcantara would benefit from Toronto's elite defense and a strong catching presence in Alejandro Kirk, particularly as the Blue Jays look to maximize their pitching potential while minimizing costs.

Edward Cabrera, another pitcher from the Marlins, has seen increased interest in trade circles as reported by ESPN’s Jesse Rogers. Cabrera's health has been a concern, but when on the mound, he has showcased dominance with a 2.47 ERA over his last 13 outings. The Houston Astros may look to acquire Cabrera for his youth and controllability, as they contemplate adding another solid starter amidst concerns in their current rotation. Although Cabrera's injury history might complicate matters, his affordability and recent performance make him a desirable asset.

The Kansas City Royals may find themselves swayed to trade Seth Lugo, even as they remain competitive, according to Rosenthal. The Los Angeles Dodgers, facing ongoing pitching issues, could be a destination for Lugo. Though primarily in need of a starter, Lugo's experience as an innings eater aligns with the Dodgers' current challenges after injuries to their rotation. Lugo's recent performance has been reliable, making him a candidate to contribute more significantly in a crucial late-season push.

In statements by Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the Pittsburgh Pirates are preparing for a significant push as the trade deadline approaches. Among their potential trade candidates is Mitch Keller, who has emerged as a key figure for the team. Keller's skill set, which is more suited for a mid-rotation role, could stabilize a thin Boston Red Sox rotation that faces uncertainties after their top options. With his secured contract through 2028, Keller represents a longer-term asset for a Red Sox team looking to contend.

Lastly, the Arizona Diamondbacks are reportedly contemplating selling off some talent as they navigate a challenging season. Zac Gallen, who has experienced a decline in performance, might be among those available. The New York Yankees have expressed interest in Gallen, whose previous accolades make him an intriguing target for a franchise in search of depth following injuries to their rotation. Gallen's past success and potential for resurgence could align well with the Yankees' needs, especially considering their inventory of pitching prospects, which offers a viable trade path.