Right-handed starting pitcher Emerson Hancock has emerged as a top trade candidate for the Seattle Mariners ahead of the upcoming Aug 3. trade deadline at 6 p.m. EST. 

ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan expects him to be dealt prior to the deadline. 

The 27-year-old is having a breakout season with a 6-4 record and team-best 3.16 ERA with a 1.01 WHIP across 105.1 innings pitched. 

Hancock is a compelling starter who owns a 23.4% strikeout rate with a 6.3% walk rate and a high-70s sweeper that produces a 35.9% whiff rate, generating a ton of swing and miss. 

Emerson Hancock is expected to be traded before the deadline, per @JeffPassan

Hancock has a 3.16 ERA across 105.1 IP and won’t be a free agent until after the 2030 season. pic.twitter.com/nKhFdHyWPI

What Emerson Hancock provides to the starting-pitcher market

As a young and controllable starter who remains under team control through the 2030 season, he carries upside as a solid mid-rotation starter. 

Hancock is an appealing trade chip who many teams would considering adding to their rotation since he's on a pre-arbitration salary, which means he's an affordable option compared to a heavy veteran contract. He's also made adjustments with a lower arm slot (about 13 degrees) which has revamped his arsenal with an improve fastball and effective sweeper. 

The Chicago Cubs could be a top suitor for Hancock as a spot in their rotation has opened up following Jameson Taillon being designated for assignment on Monday. With just six days left until the deadline, the trade continues to seem more logical for the Cubs who are in need of starting pitching. 

The Mariners would be looking to trade Hancock for a right-handed bat and can upgrade their rotation by calling up their top pitching prospects Kade Anderson and Ryan Sloan.