The New York Yankees shouldn’t just be satisfied with being one of MLB‘s best teams. Their goal should be to be the best, and that is why they should call about Tarik Skubal and every other big-name player on the trade market. One name in particular is the Astros shortstop Jeremy Peña.

Although Skubal is the kind of ace every contender wants, the acquisition cost could overwhelm the rest of New York’s trade-deadline plan. The Yankees have multiple needs, and using their best prospects on one pitcher could leave the lineup, bullpen, and infield exposed. All of which are bigger issues right now than their starting rotation.

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Yankees have been linked to shortstops and right-handed hitters

New York has been linked conceptually to shortstop help, and Peña is one of the few realistic names who could become available if Houston falls out of contention. MLB.com identified him as a possible Astros trade chip because he can reach free agency after the 2027 season and has already rejected an extension offer.

Houston is not guaranteed to sell. The Astros have improved and still believe they can make a postseason run. But if that changes, the Yankees should move quickly. Peña gives New York a complete shortstop with power, athleticism, and major postseason credibility. He was the 2022 World Series MVP and has since developed into an All-Star-level player. 

Championship window needs more certainty

This is not about giving up on Anthony Volpe after one rough stretch. It is about recognizing that a championship window built around Aaron Judge demands certainty at premium positions. Peña would improve the defense immediately, deepen the lineup, and allow the Yankees to consider moving Volpe around the infield or using him in a trade package elsewhere.

The price would still be high, and it should be. Houston would have no reason to move Peña cheaply, especially with another season of team control beyond 2026. But his cost may be easier to justify than emptying the farm system for Skubal while ignoring several other roster needs. The Yankees do not need the loudest deadline move. They need the move that fixes the most problems. And Peña could do exactly that.

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