MLB Trade Deadline: Ranking the 10 Best Starting Pitchers Available

1. Garrett Crochet, Chicago White Sox

Garrett Crochet, a first-time All-Star, leads the AL in FIP (2.43) and strikeouts (146) while posting a 3.7 fWAR. With two remaining arbitration years, Crochet offers long-term value for any team. However, his high innings total this season and recovery from Tommy John surgery last year mean he might be used out of the bullpen for the remainder of the season. Crochet’s potential for high-leverage innings in the postseason and his future as a starter make him the top trade candidate starting pitcher.

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9. Yusei Kikuchi, Toronto Blue Jays

Yusei Kikuchi has been a steady presence for the Blue Jays, posting a 4.12 ERA and a 3.61 FIP across 18 starts. Although Kikuchi isn’t a frontline starter, his performance suggests he could be a valuable addition to a contending team’s rotation, especially in a fourth starter role for a seven-game postseason series. Kikuchi’s potential appeal is heightened by his effectiveness against some of the top left-handed hitters in the NL. With free agency looming, Kikuchi is the most likely Blue Jays pitcher to be traded.

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8. Tyler Anderson, Los Angeles Angels

Tyler Anderson’s inclusion at No. 8 might surprise some, given his 2.81 ERA and second All-Star appearance in three years. However, his 4.46 expected ERA and 4.52 FIP suggest potential regression. Additionally, Anderson’s struggles in the first year of his three-year, $39 million deal with the Angels raise questions about his long-term value. While his extra year of control might be appealing, there’s a risk that he could disappoint in the second half, leaving an acquiring team with a $13 million commitment next year.

7. Zach Eflin, Tampa Bay Rays

Zach Eflin has faced injury issues this season, including lower back problems. However, when healthy, he’s been productive, finishing sixth in AL Cy Young Award voting last year with a 3.50 ERA over 177 2/3 innings. Eflin’s $18 million salary in 2025 could be a bargain if he stays healthy, but potential suitors will need to weigh his injury history carefully. The Rays, known for their smart trades, will likely seek a significant return if they decide to move Eflin.

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6. Max Scherzer, Texas Rangers

Max Scherzer, a surefire Hall of Famer, has been one of the best pitchers of his generation. However, his willingness to move to another team might be tested if the Rangers fall out of postseason contention. Scherzer has pitched for four teams since 2021 and won his second World Series ring with the Rangers last year. With a 2.70 ERA over his first three starts this season, Scherzer remains a valuable asset for any contender, but his no-trade clause and desire for another title add complexity to any potential deal.

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5. Nathan Eovaldi, Texas Rangers

Nathan Eovaldi’s injury history is well-documented, but his success as both a starter and reliever in October makes him an attractive trade candidate. Eovaldi, a two-time All-Star, played a crucial role in the Rangers’ World Series win last year and previously helped the Red Sox to a title in 2018. With the possibility of opting into a $20 million salary for 2025, Eovaldi’s future contract status will play a significant role in his trade value. Any acquiring team might look to amend the deal to ensure his availability for the next season.

4. Chris Bassitt, Toronto Blue Jays

Chris Bassitt has been one of the most consistent pitchers in the sport since 2019, boasting a 3.39 ERA across nearly 850 innings pitched. His performance in diverse environments with Oakland, New York, and Toronto makes him a reliable option. Bassitt’s $22 million salary in 2025 is fair market value, and while the Blue Jays might want to keep him for their own playoff push, his steady performance makes him a desirable trade target for any contender looking to strengthen their rotation.

3. Jack Flaherty, Detroit Tigers

Jack Flaherty has had a resurgence with the Tigers, posting a 3.24 ERA and 115 strikeouts in 15 starts this season. After a disappointing stint with the Orioles last year, Flaherty has bounced back and could be a valuable trade piece for Detroit. While the Tigers might consider extending Flaherty or offering a qualifying offer, trading him now while his value is high could yield significant returns to bolster their farm system.

2. Kevin Gausman, Toronto Blue Jays

Kevin Gausman has had an underwhelming 2024 with a 4.64 ERA, but his potential for elite performance remains high. From 2021 to 2023, Gausman was one of the top pitchers in baseball, finishing third in AL Cy Young voting last year. His five-year, $110 million deal, now in its third season, is considered team-friendly. Teams will need to assess whether Gausman’s current struggles with his fastball can be corrected, but his upside makes him one of the most intriguing trade targets on the market.

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1. Garrett Crochet, Chicago White Sox

Garrett Crochet, a first-time All-Star, leads the AL in FIP (2.43) and strikeouts (146) while posting a 3.7 fWAR. With two remaining arbitration years, Crochet offers long-term value for any team. However, his high innings total this season and recovery from Tommy John surgery last year mean he might be used out of the bullpen for the remainder of the season. Crochet’s potential for high-leverage innings in the postseason and his future as a starter make him the top trade candidate starting pitcher.

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