The Boston Red Sox have already swung a major trade for Curtis Mead, but he is not the only infielder they have shown interest in.
The Red Sox reportedly approached the Houston Astros about Jeremy Peña, but were "shut down immediately," according to WHDH Boston's Ari Alexander. Peña was an All-Star last year and is slashing .319/.373/.504 this season with 11 home runs.
According to ESPN's Buster Olney, the Red Sox are searching for a shortstop, and if they were asking about Peña, they may be looking for more than just a rental. They want a real star at the position. That could indicate that they do not think Trevor Story will be back this year or that they have lost confidence in him. Story has two more years of club control after this season, but in 2028, the Red Sox have an option to decline a club option.
Story would have been a great addition to the Red Sox offense, but it seems like the Astros are not punting on the season. They may act as buyers at the deadline. As for the Red Sox, if they want a shortstop, they will have to pivot. They could go for a less flashy addition, like David Hamilton, whom they traded to the Milwaukee Brewers in the offseason.
They could also try to go after a different star, like CJ Abrams. Abrams' name has been floating around in trade rumors, but it does not sound like the Washington Nationals are shopping him. They could move him if presented with a monster offer, but Abrams is certainly the type of player who could ignite a World Series run in Boston.
