As Major League Baseball approaches its trade deadline on July 31, teams are actively exploring opportunities to bolster their rosters, particularly in the area of starting pitching. While various names have emerged in trade discussions, the availability of many of these pitchers remains uncertain. Moreover, the perceived value of some pitchers may not align with their actual performance. To facilitate a thoughtful analysis, several notable starting pitchers who have garnered attention in recent weeks have been examined, identifying teams capable of not only utilizing their talents but also having the resources to complete potential trades. This assessment is organized in order of the likelihood of each pitcher's movement, with those least likely to be traded listed first.

Recent reports from Jon Heyman of the New York Post indicate that the Washington Nationals are open to trade discussions on pitcher MacKenzie Gore, having received inquiries from multiple teams. However, it is noted that a trade involving Gore is considered 'very unlikely.' The Seattle Mariners represent an intriguing destination for Gore, as their team has unexpectedly excelled offensively while struggling with pitching depth due to injuries to key players such as Logan Gilbert and George Kirby. With Gore's impressive statistics, including a 3.59 ERA and 140 strikeouts in 112.2 innings, he could provide the Mariners with much-needed stability. Furthermore, Seattle's highly regarded farm system may offer the Nationals the prospect capital necessary for an agreement, positioning them as a serious contender for Gore's services.

Another noteworthy name in trade discussions is Luis Severino, currently in the first year of a three-year, $67 million contract. Reports from Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic suggest that the Oakland Athletics are actively shopping several pitchers, including Severino. Given his performance issues in recent years, a change of scenery could benefit Severino, and the New York Mets appear to be a suitable landing spot. The Mets are in search of reliable pitching amid an injury-stricken rotation, and Severino's previous All-Star credentials underscore his potential value. Moreover, the Mets may be one of the few teams willing to absorb Severino's contract without significant financial concern.

In a surprising turn of events, the San Diego Padres have reportedly received interest from six teams regarding Dylan Cease, as noted by Heyman. However, the Padres are not operating as conventional sellers, as highlighted by ESPN's Buster Olney, indicating that they would be open to trading Cease only if it addresses other organizational needs. The Chicago Cubs have emerged as a fit for Cease, particularly due to their underwhelming strikeout rates among starters. Cease has consistently demonstrated an ability to generate strikeouts, making him an attractive option for the Cubs, whose pitching depth could benefit from his skill set.

The Padres are also exploring options for Sandy Alcantara, who has been a frequent name in trade discussions throughout the season. Despite his struggles, including a challenging 6.66 ERA, Alcantara's credentials as a previous Cy Young Award winner make him an intriguing trade candidate. The Toronto Blue Jays could represent a feasible destination, as their rotation has struggled even while maintaining a position among playoff contenders. Pairing Alcantara with an elite catcher like Alejandro Kirk may help mitigate his recent control issues, while the Blue Jays' strong defensive infield could align well with his ground-ball tendencies.

Though Alcantara remains a focus, other pitchers may garner more attention on the trade market. Edward Cabrera of the Miami Marlins has emerged as a player with growing interest, according to ESPN's Jesse Rogers. Cabrera, despite injury concerns, has showcased impressive performance, including a 2.47 ERA since May. His youth, affordability, and potential for improvement make him a valuable asset for teams seeking to enhance their pitching rotation. The Houston Astros, who require additional depth in their rotation to complement their current staff, could find Cabrera an appealing option despite their own limitations regarding minor league talent.

On the other hand, Seth Lugo of the Kansas City Royals has also been the subject of trade speculation, though he is not actively on the market. The Dodgers could prove to be an intriguing option as they seek both starting pitching and relief help to address a heavy workload on their bullpen due to injuries within their rotation. Lugo, known for his durability and consistent performance, may serve as a short-term solution for the Dodgers while they navigate the challenges of their pitching staff.

Lastly, the Pittsburgh Pirates are poised for significant action as the trade deadline approaches, as reported by Jim Bowden of The Athletic. While potential trades involving their top pitching prospects may not materialize, Mitch Keller has surfaced as a key asset for the Pirates. Keller's steady performance positions him well within a thin rotation, making him an appealing target for teams in search of reliable innings. The Boston Red Sox, with their unique needs at starting pitching, could find Keller a perfect fit to bolster their playoff push in the upcoming months.