The Washington Nationals are reportedly exploring interest from several teams regarding a possible trade for their starting pitcher Mackenzie Gore, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. Although Heyman suggests a deal may be unlikely, he notes teams are keen to pursue the opportunity before the deadline approaches.
Gore’s Performance Sparks Attention Despite Team Struggles
Mackenzie Gore, 26, is having a breakout season with the Nationals, marked by his first All-Star selection. Despite a 4-9 record in 20 starts, Gore maintains a respectable 3.59 ERA and a 1.269 WHIP, while averaging a career-high 11.2 strikeouts per nine innings. His performance includes a recent rough outing against the San Diego Padres, where he allowed eight earned runs in just 2.1 innings, but prior to that, he gave up only 16 earned runs over ten starts. His steadily improving ERA over four years underlines his promising development as a pitcher.
Nationals’ Position and Upcoming MLB Trade Deadline
The Nationals currently hold a 39-60 record, sitting at the bottom of the National League East standings. This context may influence their reluctance to trade Gore, who still has two years of team control before entering unrestricted free agency in 2028. Teams interested in Gore would need to act before the 2025 MLB trade deadline, set for July 31 at 6 p.m. ET, as Washington evaluates the potential advantages of holding onto a rising talent during a challenging season.