The Major League Baseball (MLB) trade deadline on July 31 is approaching, and the possibility of impactful changes within starting pitching rosters is a focal point for many teams. Numerous names have emerged in trade discussions recently, though the actual availability of these pitchers remains uncertain. Additionally, there are instances where a pitcher's reputation may not align with their current performance.

Recent reports from Jon Heyman of the New York Post suggest that the Washington Nationals are open to trade inquiries regarding MacKenzie Gore, although they are hesitant to move the 2025 All-Star. The Seattle Mariners may represent a fitting destination for Gore, especially given their current struggles with starting pitching due to injuries. The Mariners are in need of reliable arms and possess a robust farm system, ranked No. 1 in the league, which could provide the Nationals with the talent necessary to support their ongoing rebuild.

Another name circulating is Luis Severino, who, despite being in the first year of a three-year contract for $67 million, could be on the move as reported by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic. The New York Mets could be an ideal landing spot for Severino, given their current roster challenges in the pitching department. Severino’s performance has been inconsistent, yet his past accolades as a two-time All-Star and his potential make him a valuable asset for a Mets team that has seen several pitchers struggle with injuries this season.

Dylan Cease has attracted interest from multiple teams, according to Heyman, though the San Diego Padres are not typical sellers. The Chicago Cubs are one of the teams reaching out about Cease. The Cubs' rotation has struggled to generate strikeouts, an area in which Cease excels. His previous successes, including Cy Young Award votes, indicate that he could provide critical reinforcements, especially given his background with the Cubs organization before moving to the White Sox.

Reports indicate the Padres are also interested in Sandy Alcantara, a name that has been a part of trade discussions since the beginning of the season. Despite a tumultuous season, Alcantara remains an attractive option due to his potential upside. The Toronto Blue Jays could be a strategic match, given their need for pitching depth. The Blue Jays currently lead their division but have a rotation ERA of 4.52, suggesting that adding Alcantara could bolster their postseason ambitions.

Moreover, Edward Cabrera of the Miami Marlins has gained traction in trade talks, as highlighted by Jesse Rogers of ESPN. The Houston Astros might find Cabrera appealing due to his potential and affordability. Cabrera has demonstrated dominance this season but is also seen as a risk due to injury concerns.

Seth Lugo of the Kansas City Royals remains an intriguing option in the market, as reports indicate Kansas City may be tempted to trade him even if they continue to compete. Although the Dodgers are primarily in search of a starting pitcher, Lugo's ability to eat innings could still present a beneficial addition to their depleted pitching staff.

The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly ready to engage in significant trades ahead of the deadline, with Mitch Keller being a lead figure in potential discussions. Keller's functionality as a mid-rotation starter may align well with teams like the Boston Red Sox, who could use his consistency to strengthen their own rotation as they aim for a playoff push.

Finally, Zac Gallen of the Arizona Diamondbacks, once a Cy Young contender, has struggled recently but may attract interest due to his previous successes. The New York Yankees, in need of starting pitching after injuries to key players, could look to Gallen as a possible addition, given that the Yankees boast several prospects with potential to facilitate such a trade.