Gore Unlikely to Be Traded Despite Widespread Interest

Washington Nationals ace MacKenzie Gore, a 26-year-old All-Star with a 3.52 ERA and 144 strikeouts this season, is attracting widespread interest as the MLB trade deadline nears, with the Chicago Cubs, New York Yankees, Houston Astros, Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, and New York Mets all linked to him. Despite the Nationals' willingness to listen to offers, Gore is considered unlikely to be traded unless a team offers a 'king's ransom' of MLB-ready, high-upside prospects, particularly at premium positions. The Cubs are viewed as having the prospect depth to entice Washington, with potential trades involving Matt Shaw and Owen Caissie. The Nationals see Gore as a foundational piece for their future, making any deal both costly and uncertain. Gore remains under team control through 2027, increasing his value to both Washington and potential suitors. Unless a team meets the Nationals' steep demands, Gore is expected to remain in Washington past the deadline.