Pitching Help: Who Might Move Before the Big MLB Trade Deadline?

Teams scramble to strengthen rosters as the trade deadline nears, and top pitchers become hot property. Two names stand out right now—one coming off elbow surgery, another a smart budget buy with experience. The first pitcher, Tarik Skubal, just returned after six weeks away for a elbow checkup. Scouts say he looked a bit off but still has that eye-catching fastball and slider combo. Teams will fight hard to land him. Big-city teams like the Cubs and Blue Jays seem most eager, while teams like the Padres and Phillies aren't afraid to pull the trigger on big moves. The Tigers and Rays also have ties to Skubal from past dealings. Meanwhile, the Brewers might consider trading for him to pair him with young stars like Jacob Misiorowski and Kyle Harrison, if they can stomach giving up top prospects. The Cubs come up again—this time for Freddy Peralta, a steady arm who costs just $8 million this year. His old manager now runs the Cubs' side, so the fit seems natural. Small-market teams often avoid big trades, but the Brewers once pulled off a similar deal for CC Sabathia years ago.Pitching wins in October, so every contender wants proven arms. Skubal throws hard but isn’t fully sharp. Peralta is cheaper but just as reliable. Will a smart team grab one before prices rise? The trade market is unpredictable—even guesses can go wrong. Some teams panic when time runs out. Others wait too long. But one thing’s clear: having a strong arm on the mound in late summer can change a whole season.