The MLB trade deadline is rapidly approaching, with the clock ticking down to 6 p.m. ET on Thursday, July 31st. As teams prepare for this pivotal moment, it's essential to understand which starting pitchers might be on the move and who could step into starting roles after trades are finalized. This guide serves as a comprehensive cheat sheet, highlighting potential trade candidates and offering insights into the current landscape of starting pitchers in the league.
Seth Lugo of the Kansas City Royals stands out as a prime candidate to be traded. With a player option worth $15 million for 2026, it's likely he will opt for free agency, prompting the Royals to consider moving him while they can. At 36, it’s uncertain if the Royals can afford him, making a trade seem inevitable.
The Arizona Diamondbacks are in a curious position with Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly. Both pitchers are set to become free agents at season’s end. While the Diamondbacks maintain they are not sellers, the reality may force them to reconsider if they fall further out of the playoff race. Gallen has struggled lately, but Kelly has been a reliable asset, making him an attractive option for contenders.
The Baltimore Orioles are actively seeking to offload players without control for next season, including Zach Eflin, Charlie Morton, and Tomoyuki Sugano. Morton has shown a resurgence since being removed from the rotation, while Eflin has consistently performed over the last four years. Both could attract interest from teams looking to bolster their rotations.
Another intriguing name is Michael Soroka of the Washington Nationals. Currently on a one-year contract, the Nationals are keen to trade him rather than lose him to free agency. With a 3.89 xFIP and a 3.57 SIERA, his 5.10 ERA may not reflect his true performance, making him a potential breakout candidate.
The Cincinnati Reds face a dilemma, sitting above .500 yet trailing in the playoff race. They may need to make a crucial decision regarding Nick Martinez, who is a free agent at season's end. His versatility as both a starter and reliever could make him a valuable asset for a contending team.
The Chicago White Sox are clearly in a selling mode, likely to part ways with veterans Aaron Civale and Adrian Houser. Both have pitched effectively, making them appealing options for teams seeking affordable back-end rotation pieces.
Surprisingly, the Milwaukee Brewers, despite having one of the best records in baseball, may entertain trades for pitchers like Nestor Cortes and Jose Quintana. With an excess of starting options, trading one could provide the team with necessary depth while still maintaining a strong rotation.
Unexpectedly, Patrick Corbin of the Texas Rangers has re-emerged as a trade candidate, boasting a respectable 3.91 ERA at 36 years old. The Rangers may look to capitalize on his value, especially given his status as a pending free agent.
Andrew Heaney, currently with the Pittsburgh Pirates, shares a similar narrative. Despite a 5.03 ERA, his reputation as a veteran left-hander could attract interest from teams in need of pitching depth.
Another lefty, Tyler Anderson of the Los Angeles Angels, remains a trade possibility due to his solid changeup and career 4.28 ERA. The Angels may regret not trading him last year when he had a better season.
Finally, Zack Littell of the Tampa Bay Rays seems destined for a trade. Though performing well, his impending free agency makes him a likely candidate for a deal, especially as the Rays aim to acquire controllable assets.
As we anticipate the trade deadline, several pitchers are poised to transition into starting roles. Their performances and the needs of their respective teams will dictate their futures as the season progresses.
In conclusion, with the MLB trade deadline just around the corner, the landscape of starting pitchers could change dramatically. Teams will need to act quickly to secure valuable assets, while others may look to bolster their rotations with fresh talent. Keep an eye on these names as the deadline approaches, as they could significantly impact the playoff race.
