Top MLB starting pitchers who are candidates to be traded at the deadline

It’s been a fascinating and unusual first month of the 2026 MLB season, as several expected contenders have gotten off to very slow starts, resulting in two managerial firings already. With so many big-market teams struggling, front offices have engaged in trade talks significantly earlier than they have in previous seasons. In fact, Philadelphia Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski told the media last week that he’s had trade conversations “earlier than I ever have. Other clubs haven’t been doing very well, either. Clubs have called around.”Advertisement